Trump understands that a just peace cannot be made behind the backs of Ukrainians - Barro.

France: Ukraine plays an important role in the peace process - Barro

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Europe of France Jean-Noël Barro stated that US President Donald Trump understands the crucial role of Ukraine in achieving a just peace in the country. He also noted that Trump will never agree to the largest territorial annexation in the last 75 years.

The French minister said: 'Donald Trump is too smart to allow the largest territorial annexation in the last 75 years. He is too smart to negotiate peace deals without considering the opinion of Ukrainians and Europeans'.

Barro warned that such annexation could pose a threat to the 'rights of the strong', which will have serious consequences for Europe and the world. He urged Ukraine to independently decide when to start peace negotiations.

'Trump called Zelensky immediately after the election, not Putin. Ukrainians must decide on their own when to start peace negotiations. Their allies should help them do this from a position of strength', he added.