Asger Risom
French President Emmanuel Macron urges Russia to stop stalling and agree to Trump-backed peace plan, as Kremlin continues to deny targeting civilians
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The international community continues to push for an end to the war in Ukraine, but signs of meaningful progress remain elusive. Now, French President Emmanuel Macron is turning up the pressure on Moscow, accusing it of posturing and delaying tactics while rejecting a proposed ceasefire agreement.
Macron Slams Russia for Blocking Ceasefire
Speaking during a visit to Cairo on Monday, Macron condemned what he called Russia’s “pretense and delaying tactics” in peace negotiations and demanded that it “unconditionally accept” the ceasefire proposal spearheaded by U.S. President Donald Trump.
“Almost a month has passed since Russia not only refused to accept [a ceasefire], but also increased its bombing against civilians with even more tragic deaths, as happened a few days ago in Ukraine,” Macron said, as reported by Digi24, citing AFP.
Macron’s remarks follow a deadly missile attack in Ukraine on Friday that claimed 20 lives, including nine children—an attack Ukrainian officials blame squarely on the Kremlin.
Kremlin Pushes Back, Blames Ukraine
In response, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov denied that Russia had targeted civilian infrastructure, stating there were “no attacks on social facilities.” He reiterated Moscow’s position that several obstacles remain before a ceasefire agreement can be reached.
“Vladimir Putin supports a ceasefire agreement, but before that, unresolved issues remain,” Peskov said, citing the alleged inability of the Ukrainian government to control extremist elements and what he described as ongoing Western plans to militarize Ukraine further.
Moscow has insisted that these matters must be addressed before any truce can move forward—a stance that Western leaders see as an excuse to prolong the war.
Peace Talks at a Standstill
The Trump administration has been pushing for a peace settlement, but negotiations have stalled amid mutual distrust and continued military operations. As pressure mounts from both allies and adversaries, it remains unclear whether Moscow is genuinely willing to end hostilities or simply buying time.
With the conflict well into its fourth year, Macron’s sharp rebuke signals growing European frustration with Russia’s negotiating posture—and renewed calls for a decisive path to peace.
