Camilla Jessen
French President Macron rejects Trump’s suggestion.
French President Emmanuel Macron has rejected the idea of Russian President Vladimir Putin acting as a mediator in the conflict between Israel and Iran.
Macron said Russia does not have the credibility or legitimacy to take on such a role, The Times of Israel reported on June 15.
Macron made the comments during a visit to Greenland.
He was responding to a suggestion from U.S. President Donald Trump, who had proposed that Putin could help mediate talks between Tehran and Jerusalem to ease tensions.
“I do not believe that Russia, which is currently involved in a high-intensity war and has for several years failed to comply with the UN Charter, can act as a mediator,” Macron said.
Macron’s remarks reflect growing skepticism in Europe about Russia’s involvement in global diplomacy. Russia remains heavily engaged in its war against Ukraine and faces ongoing international criticism for human rights violations and breaches of international law.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also spoke about the situation, warning that Israeli strikes on Iran could have global consequences. He said the conflict has pushed oil prices higher, which benefits Russia’s economy and military.
Zelenskyy added that rising Russian revenues could weaken Western efforts to support Ukraine. He said he would press the U.S. for new price caps and sanctions while also monitoring Iran’s weapons production.