PARIS, March 5, (V7N) — French President Emmanuel Macron will address the nation on Wednesday at 8:00 pm (1900 GMT), responding to shifting global dynamics in light of Donald Trump’s radical changes to US policy on Ukraine.

In a post on X, Macron acknowledged the "great uncertainty" facing the world and emphasized the need for clear direction as Europe braces for geopolitical shifts.

Macron’s speech comes as Trump pushes for direct negotiations between Ukraine and Russia to quickly end the war that began with Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has signaled openness to a temporary truce in the sea and sky, aligning with a proposal Macron previously floated at a London summit hosted by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Trump, after a heated White House exchange with Zelensky last week—where he accused the Ukrainian leader of "gambling with World War III"—said on Tuesday that Zelensky had sent him an "important" letter expressing readiness for negotiations.

Macron has been in close contact with both Trump and Zelensky, seeking to mediate a durable peace. The French presidency welcomed Zelensky’s renewed willingness to engage with Trump, while government spokeswoman Sophie Primas called the US-Ukraine dialogue a "positive step" toward stability.

As Europe prepares for potentially reduced US support, Macron is expected to advocate for stronger European defense capabilities. His meeting Wednesday with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a known Trump and Putin ally, will be closely watched for signals about EU unity on Ukraine.

On Thursday, Macron will join other EU leaders in Brussels for a crucial summit aimed at securing a major boost in European defense spending.

Macron’s national address is set to outline France’s position in this evolving geopolitical landscape, reaffirming the country's commitment to European security while navigating the shifting US stance under Trump. His leadership in rallying European allies will be key as the continent prepares for a potentially diminished transatlantic partnership.

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