U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris to reaffirm their strong bilateral ties and discuss a range of pressing global issues, including the ongoing war in Ukraine, the situation in Syria, and the crisis in Gaza. The meeting underscored the shared commitment between the U.S. and France to confront global challenges through coordinated diplomatic action.
Ukraine: United Front Against Russian Aggression
The Secretary of State and President Macron devoted significant time to discussing the ongoing war in Ukraine, emphasizing the international community’s unified response to Russia’s unprovoked invasion. Both leaders reaffirmed their firm support for Ukraine and expressed concerns about the continued flow of assistance from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to Russia’s defense sector, which is enabling the Kremlin to sustain its military aggression.
“We remain resolute in our support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Our efforts to support Ukraine will continue as long as it takes to ensure that Russia’s aggression is met with consequences,” said Secretary Blinken. He added that China’s involvement in sustaining Russia’s war efforts raises significant security concerns, and the U.S. would work closely with European partners, including France, to hold China accountable for its role.
President Macron echoed the importance of maintaining a unified front against Russia, stressing that the war in Ukraine is not just a regional conflict but one that affects the global order. “This is a defining moment for Europe, and we must stand together with Ukraine to uphold the principles of international law and the security of the continent,” Macron stated.
Syria: Navigating a Path to Inclusivity and Stability
Another focal point of the talks was the ongoing crisis in Syria, where the two leaders discussed the need for a more inclusive political process that reflects the rights and aspirations of the Syrian people. Both leaders agreed that any transition in Syria must be guided by the principles of justice, peace, and inclusivity.
“The future of Syria must be one where all Syrians, regardless of their background, have a role to play in shaping the country’s future,” Secretary Blinken remarked. “We are committed to working with our allies to promote a peaceful resolution to the conflict, while ensuring that those responsible for the atrocities will be held accountable.”
President Macron stressed that France would continue to push for meaningful dialogue between the various stakeholders in Syria, ensuring that the voices of the Syrian people—especially marginalized groups—are heard. “France stands firmly with the Syrian people in their aspiration for a future free of tyranny and violence,” he added.
Gaza: Urgent Need for Ceasefire and Hostage Release
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza was also high on the agenda. Both leaders emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire that would lead to the immediate release of all hostages taken by Hamas. Secretary Blinken and President Macron agreed on the importance of ensuring that any ceasefire arrangement secures the safe return of hostages without further delay.
“Every day that passes without a ceasefire prolongs the suffering of innocent civilians,” Blinken said. “We are committed to working with international partners to reach a resolution that brings peace to Gaza and addresses the humanitarian needs of the people there.”
President Macron echoed Blinken’s sentiment, urging for swift diplomatic efforts to end the violence and restore stability to the region. “The humanitarian situation in Gaza is catastrophic, and we must act swiftly to secure peace and ensure that innocent lives are protected,” Macron said.
Continued U.S.-France Cooperation on Global Issues
The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to continued collaboration on these critical issues. Blinken and Macron agreed that the U.S. and France must remain steadfast in their efforts to confront global challenges, from Russia’s aggression in Ukraine to the humanitarian crises in the Middle East.
“We are united in our commitment to a rules-based international order and to defending the values that we both hold dear: democracy, human rights, and peace,” Blinken concluded. “Our cooperation with France remains indispensable in addressing the most pressing issues of our time.”
Macron, for his part, underscored that the U.S. and France’s partnership is central to shaping a secure and stable world. “France and the United States share a deep bond, and together, we are stronger in the face of the world’s challenges,” he said.
Both leaders committed to continuing their work together in the coming months to advance peace and security, with a focus on supporting Ukraine, stabilizing Syria, and resolving the crisis in Gaza. The meeting was seen as another step in reinforcing the longstanding diplomatic relationship between the U.S. and France, as both nations continue to lead efforts to address global instability.