**Zelensky and Macron Discuss Peace Efforts**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron on February 14 about steps to end Russia‘s war against Ukraine. The call came after Zelensky met with US officials, including Vice President JD Vance.
According to the Presidential Office, Zelensky emphasized that Europe must be represented at the negotiating table. He and Macron discussed security guarantees and France’s proposals for a future ceasefire in Ukraine. However, Zelensky has stated that Ukraine’s preferred post-war security guarantee is NATO membership.
US leadership has expressed skepticism about this goal. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said that Ukraine’s NATO membership was not a “realistic outcome” of peace negotiations. President Donald Trump also spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin directly about negotiations, catching European officials off guard.
**European Leaders Express Support**
Despite the challenges, many European leaders have reaffirmed their support for Ukraine. Macron stated that if Trump can convince Putin to stop aggression against Ukraine, it will be a positive development. However, some allies fear they will bear economic and security burdens in Ukraine’s post-war recovery.
Zelensky thanked Macron for championing the idea of “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.” The two leaders discussed how European partners can coordinate with the US and Ukraine to achieve a just peace.
**Other Developments**
A 28-year-old US citizen was detained at Moscow’s airport after Russian authorities found cannabis derivatives in his luggage. Ukrainian officials are concerned about the treatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war, with some being sought in Chechnya.
Two laboratories confirmed that Russian munitions contained a riot control agent. A German drone manufacturer plans to double its production in Ukraine. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expressed its support for hosting a summit between Russia and Ukraine.
**Slovakia Protests**
In Slovakia, protests are erupting across the country as Prime Minister Robert Fico meets with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. Tens of thousands of Slovaks fear that their democracy is at risk.
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