Peace talks on Ukraine war: Rubio and Witkoff head to France

This week, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Donald Trump's special envoy for conflict resolution in Ukraine and Gaza, Steve Witkoff, are expected in Paris to participate in negotiations concerning a possible resolution to the war in Ukraine.

The information was confirmed by two sources familiar with the delegation's plans.

Witkoff is scheduled to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron, while Rubio plans discussions with France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot.

An American official, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to lack of authorization to speak to the press, confirmed that Rubio will indeed be in Paris this week before heading to Africa.

One person familiar with the visit preparations said that the core issues for discussion will include Ukraine, Iran, and trade policy — especially in light of Trump’s recent statements about potentially introducing new tariffs.

Witkoff’s meeting with Macron will take place shortly after his visit to Moscow, where he held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The goal of the meeting was to discuss the potential for a ceasefire in Ukraine, following significant difficulties in previous U.S.-Russia negotiations on the issue.

According to the White House spokesperson, the Moscow visit is considered “another step in the negotiation process toward a ceasefire,” despite Trump’s “frustration” with the lack of progress.

President Macron, for his part, plays a pivotal role in promoting security guarantees for Ukraine — including discussions about the potential deployment of foreign troops in the country should a ceasefire be reached.

Trade tariffs are expected to become a key point in the upcoming talks. Last week, President Macron stated that Trump’s decision to pause his most aggressive tariffs for 90 days merely creates a “fragile” lull in tensions.

Source: Politico.

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