US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron engaged in discussions on Friday evening regarding efforts to secure a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, as tensions continue to escalate in the region. The leaders also addressed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war during their conversation, highlighting key global and bilateral issues.
According to a statement from the White House, the two leaders reviewed the situation in both Ukraine and the Middle East, focusing on the urgent need for a ceasefire in Lebanon. The goal is to allow residents on both sides of the Blue Line to return safely to their homes. The White House emphasized that both leaders committed to continued close consultations on these matters, through direct communication and their national security teams.
In addition to the Middle East discussions, Biden and Macron reaffirmed their shared stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Biden’s administration recently allowed Ukraine to use long-range American missiles, a decision supported by Macron. The French president previously praised Biden’s decision, noting that it came in response to Russia’s escalatory actions. Macron had also expressed support earlier this year for Ukraine’s right to strike within Russian territory, suggesting that Moscow was exploiting Western hesitance regarding Ukraine’s missile capabilities.
As the situation in both Lebanon and Ukraine continues to develop, the leaders remain focused on diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and ensure peace in both regions.
