President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Paris on June 8, 2024, to reaffirm their support for Ukraine and discuss global security issues. The leaders held a state dinner at the Élysée Palace to celebrate the old alliance between France and the United States.
During their meeting, Biden thanked Macron for his leadership in Europe and expressed solidarity with France on various international matters. Macron, in turn, praised Biden's commitment to Ukraine and pledged continued support for Kyiv's fight against Russia's invasion.
Biden also discussed the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza with Macron. The US President expressed his support for a cease-fire to allow humanitarian assistance into the region, while France considered leading a coalition of countries that would send trainers to Ukraine to help regulate their air defenses.
The leaders also addressed trade tensions between their countries and discussed ways to strengthen economic ties. The United States and France co-chair the artillery coalition at the Ukraine Defense Contact Group and plan to take new steps to support Ukraine in its battle against Russia's invasion.
Former US Ambassador to NATO Kurt Volker stated that both Washington and Paris seek to ensure Ukraine survives as a sovereign, independent European democracy. Macron discussed the possibility of having trainers on the ground in Ukraine with NATO leaders.
The close allies have had diverging strategies for supporting Ukraine, but they remain committed to its defense against Russian aggression. Biden warned Putin that he 'will not stop' at Ukraine, while Macron hailed Biden's loyalty to Europe.
Biden and Macron also discussed various other topics during their meeting, including the situation in Lebanon and the Middle East as a whole. The leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region.