France sets EU goals ahead of Trump-Zelensky summit in Washington

 French President Emmanuel Macron said Europe seeks a lasting peace that ensures Ukraine’s sovereignty and the return of all prisoners and children. Speaking ahead of a summit involving U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and European leaders, Macron stressed that no territorial talks should occur without Kyiv’s participation.

He added that any agreement reducing Ukraine’s military would be unviable. Macron acknowledged that Ukraine might, as part of a truce or peace deal, recognize the loss of control over some territories — without conceding their sovereignty.

Earlier, U.S. special envoy Steven Witkoff said the summit’s main topic would be “territorial exchange.” On August 17, Zelensky rejected any territorial concessions.