During his speech at the Munich Security Conference, French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the ongoing war in Ukraine, specifically targeting what he termed 'defeating speech' regarding the conflict. He argued that negative rhetoric about Ukraine undermines the strength of the Ukrainian cause, as well as the perception of Russia's condition in the war. Macron asserted that contrary to defeatist claims, Russia has been significantly weakened over the course of the conflict.

Macron stressed the importance of recognizing the broader implications of the ongoing war, pointing to the destructive actions taken by Russia against Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure. He supported the idea of a negotiated peace between Ukraine and Russia, echoing sentiments made by former US President Donald Trump. However, he firmly stated that negotiations should not come at the expense of capitulating to Russian demands, advocating instead for increased pressure on Russia to ensure a just and sustainable resolution to the conflict.

The comments reflect Macron's ongoing commitment to Ukraine and his criticism of narratives that suggest despair in the face of Russian aggression. This position indicates a broader European perspective that seeks to galvanize support for Ukraine while maintaining pressure on Moscow, suggesting that a robust and united front is essential for achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.