French President Emmanuel Macron intends to become Europe's representative at talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on making peace in Ukraine, The Telegraph has reported, citing a source in the Elysee Palace.

According to the publication, a “coalition of the willing” pushed Macron to such a step, mentioning that he had previously been in close contact with Putin.

As for the French president, he expressed his readiness to take the leadership role “when the time comes.” At the same time, according to the source, the right time has not yet come, the British edition notes.

As The Telegraph writes, at the same time, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer does not intend to negotiate with Russia.

Earlier, a “coalition of the willing” concluded that at least one European leader should hold talks with Putin on the issue of Ukraine.

Finnish President Alexander Stubb said that Britain and France should take the lead in any talks with Putin. “Personally, I would prefer that our representatives from the 'coalition of the willing' do it.”

In other words, France or the UK,” the British media quoted the Finnish president as saying.