French President Emmanuel Macron sharply criticized Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Friday, accusing him of fueling conflict rather than pursuing peace. The remarks came after Putin delivered a combative speech during Moscow’s Victory Day parade, celebrating the Soviet Union’s World War II triumph.
“President Putin is on the side of war, not the side of peace,” Macron said during a meeting with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. “The belligerent comments that he made, the reality of every day, only underline that.”
The French leader’s rebuke follows escalating tensions as Washington attempts to mediate a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. Putin’s speech, which framed the ongoing invasion as a continuation of Russia’s historic struggles against Western aggression, drew international condemnation.
Macron and Tusk reaffirmed their support for Ukraine, emphasizing Europe’s unity against Russian aggression. The criticism comes amid stalled peace efforts and renewed fighting in eastern Ukraine, where Russian forces have intensified attacks in recent weeks.
The annual May 9 military parade in Moscow, traditionally a display of patriotic pride, this year served as another platform for Putin’s defiant rhetoric. Western leaders have repeatedly warned that his government shows no genuine interest in ending the war, now in its third year.
As diplomatic efforts struggle to gain traction, Macron’s comments underscore the growing divide between Russia and NATO allies, who remain committed to supporting Kyiv while calling for a just and lasting peace.
