However, after several weeks of negotiations in different diplomatic formats that have not led to any major concessions from Russia or the U.S. it is unclear what impact his visit will have.
Macron spoke to Joe Biden Wednesday about his diplomatic efforts. Macron’s office stated that they had discussed with the Russian and Ukrainian leaders Thursday evening ways to “identify elements which could lead to deescalation” and “conditions of strategic balance in Europe,” which should allow for the reduction and security on the continent.
Russia has amassed over 100,000 troops close to Ukraine’s eastern and northern borders. This raises concern that Moscow might invade again as it did in 2014. The uncertainty and troop presence have caused anxiety among Ukrainians and damaged the country’s economy. Russian officials deny plans for an invasion.
Putin is in Beijing to meet with Chinese President Xi Jingping on Friday, as the Winter Olympics begin. He has indicated an apparent willingness for further talks with Washington and NATO over recent days. Experts believe that Russia and the West will continue to talk as long as there is reason for cautious optimism.
Recep Tayyip Erdan, the Turkish President, has offered mediation between Russia and Ukraine.
In Washington, U.S. officials claimed that a plan to attack Russian territory or Russian-speaking persons was being developed. This information was shared in classified intelligence with Ukrainian officials and European allies. This was the latest example where the Biden administration disclosed intelligence findings in an attempt to stop Russian disinformation attempts and foil what it claims is Putin’s attempt at setting the stage for military action.
The White House claims that U.S. intelligence has shown Russia launched a malicious social media disinformation campaign against Ukraine. It has also dispatched explosive-trained operatives to commit acts of sabotage against Russia’s proxy forces. Britain revealed intelligence that showed Russia plotting to establish a pro-Russian puppet government.
As part of his efforts to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, Emmanuel Macron, French President, will travel to Moscow and Kyiv next Wednesday.
After the U.S. claimed that the Kremlin had plotted to attack Ukrainian forces, the Kremlin said on Thursday that it was using the plot as a pretext for military action. The claims are not supported by detailed information from the U.S.
France is a major NATO player and is moving troops into Romania to prepare for Russian action. However, Macron has been active in pushing for dialogue and has spoken to Putin several times over the past weeks. According to Macron’s office, the two will meet Monday.
Macron will continue a French tradition by following a different path than the United States in geopolitics. He will also try to make his mark on this crisis and protect Europe’s interests.