French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that a simple ceasefire in Ukraine will not resolve the conflict, adding that this requires a comprehensive peace that will resolve territorial issues, guarantee security, and create conditions for long-term economic, social and political stability in Ukraine, reports La Depeche.

“Recent history has shown us that when there was only a ceasefire, it was not maintained by the Russian side. In addition, Ukraine must be present in all discussions that concern it.

Do I think that the United States wants to leave NATO today? No. Do I think it is desirable for the United States to leave NATO? No. In my opinion, NATO is more useful today than ever. I believe NATO remains a useful alliance, as it is the key to the security of a number of European countries. Russia is an existential threat to Europeans.

The considerable rearmament that Russia is currently undertaking should force Europeans to react, regardless of the United States’ position. We [i.e. Europe] intend to strengthen not only the army, but also the industrial and technological base of European defense,” the French president said.

Macron stressed that he had never announced sending troops to Ukraine.

Also, he expressed his readiness to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin by phone “at any time” if the latter called him.

“Of course, I will speak with him again if it is useful in the given situation,” the French president said.