Macron highlights the fragility of the ceasefire in Gaza

French President Emmanuel Macron made significant remarks during a joint press conference with Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob in Ljubljana. Expressing caution regarding the sustainability of the ceasefire in Gaza, Macron stated, "We know that the situation in Gaza remains quite fragile."

Underlining that international pressure must continue for the ceasefire to become permanent, Macron stated that they would continue to mobilize to ensure the opening of border crossings for humanitarian aid to reach the region and to support this process. He also noted that they are working to secure a resolution at the United Nations Security Council to establish an international framework covering both governance and security.

On the other hand, addressing the Russia-Ukraine War, Macron said that both military and financial support for Ukraine would continue as long as the conflict persists. The French leader noted that the European Union is providing support in the same manner, in line with the Commission's proposals.

Macron stated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has clearly expressed his official intention toward a peace agreement with Russia since March. However, according to Macron, the Moscow administration has not yet taken any steps in this regard.

Macron also announced that a Coalition of Volunteers providing security guarantees for Ukraine has been formed and that this coalition will meet on October 24th with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Following the meeting, he stated that negotiations regarding Ukraine's territory can only be conducted with the Ukrainian leadership, while Europeans will make decisions regarding their own security, and continued his remarks as follows:

"The security guarantees are ready. Then there remain the negotiations regarding territory, but these can only be negotiated with President Zelenskyy on behalf of his country. No one else can do this. Therefore, Ukraine must decide on its own territory, and Europeans must decide on their own security. This is how things must proceed; they cannot proceed in any other framework."

SARKOZY CASE ON THE AGENDA IN FRANCE

During the meeting, a question was also raised regarding the 5-year prison sentence handed down to former French President Nicolas Sarkozy in the Libya case and his potential entry into prison. Macron emphasized the importance of not interfering with the judicial system and made the following statement:

"It is not for me, in my position, to comment on or criticize judicial decisions. I am the guarantor of the proper functioning of our institutions, and in doing so, I am responsible for ensuring the correct operation between the judicial, executive, and legislative branches, even when it concerns a former President."

Macron emphasized that while the French public and those close to Sarkozy may experience various emotions regarding the prison sentence handed down, it is essential to respect the independence of the judiciary. He noted that the debate regarding the immediate execution of the prison sentence imposed on Sarkozy could arise as a "legitimate issue" in democratic countries, and underscored the necessity of conducting such discussions in a calm environment, independent of the specific events.

Addressing the aging of French society and the controversial pension reform, Macron argued that, as in other European countries, gradually raising the retirement age to 64 in France is a "necessary step."

News Source: 12punto