“Ukraine is the only one that can discuss its territories” as a sovereign nation, Mr Macron said during a joint news conference with Mr Zelensky.

Talks on the proposed plan are still in a “preliminary phase”, Mr Macron said during a joint news conference with Mr Zelensky, adding: “But I want to praise the peace efforts of the US.”

Mr Macron said the coming days will see “crucial discussions” between US officials and western partners aiming to clarify US participation in security guarantees for Ukraine after a potential ceasefire or peace deal.

The French president insisted the peace plan can “only be finalised with Europeans around the table”.

He also denounced Russia’s continued onslaught against Ukraine, saying: “At a time when we are talking about peace, Russia continues to kill and

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