Discussions on resolving the war in Ukraine took place in Paris on Thursday, involving key representatives from the US, France, Ukraine, Germany, and the UK. The talks aim to find pathways toward ending the conflict. French President Emmanuel Macron joined the discussions on Thursday evening.
The meetings occurred against a backdrop of controversy. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff of echoing Russian narratives. Zelenskyy stated that Witkoff's statements on the conflict were dangerous and potentially biased.
Witkoff's recent remarks, following his third meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggested a ceasefire hinged on agreements regarding the annexed territories. These territories include Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Crimea. Zelenskyy firmly rejected Witkoff's position, asserting that he has no mandate to discuss Ukrainian territories.
The outcome of the Paris talks remains uncertain. However, the discussions highlight the ongoing international efforts to mediate a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. The contrasting views between key figures underscore the complexities and challenges involved in achieving a lasting peace.