France does not rule out dialogue with Russia to protect its own interests

Paris has never rejected direct dialogue with Russia to protect its own interests. This was stated by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot в interview to the Liberation newspaper.

Answering the question about the President's statement Emmanuel Macron on the possible resumption of dialogue with the Russian dictator Vladimir Putinbarro noted that this is not impossible.

"France has never in principle ruled out cooperation with Russia, provided that it is fully transparent to Ukraine and its European partners, provided, of course, that it is beneficial. The Europeans, who are now the main financial and military sponsors of Ukraine, should have a channel to defend their interests without delegating responsibility to anyone," Barrot emphasized.

At the same time, the minister noted that Putin currently shows no signs of a real desire to move toward peace. In particular, Barro noted, this is confirmed by recent Russian attacks on the territory of Ukraine, such as shelling of the passenger train "Barvinkove – Chop". Barro emphasized that this is a war crime.

When asked how Europe can ensure its own security and independence "caught between the powerful forces of Russia, China and the United States," Barro emphasized the need to "reject all intimidation and coercion, regardless of its source."

"To do this, we need to accelerate the implementation of the idea we have been advocating for almost a decade: strategic autonomy. US claims to Greenlandand the European territory under NATO's protection, revealed Europe's dependence on security issues. Therefore, we should continue to rearm and strengthen ourselves to take responsibility for our own security," the Foreign Minister summarized.

• on December 19, 2025, Macron said that Europeans will have to find a way to resume a dialog with Russia directly. He believes that it is useful to talk to Putin again.
• on December 21, Zelenskyy confirmed that Macron had discussed direct dialogue with Russia if America failed to stop the occupiers. But the president believes that we need to fight for the participation of the United States in the peaceful dialog.
• In January 2026, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys opposed the resumption of dialogue with Russiaat the same time, he emphasized the need to increase pressure on the aggressor state.