June 9th 2024.
In a meeting on Saturday, President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine, with Biden stating that the US stands firmly on the side of Ukraine and its allies. Macron echoed this sentiment, declaring that France will continue to offer its support for as long as it is needed.
Prior to their meeting, the US administration had made it clear that they would not be participating in Macron's plan to send military trainers to Ukraine. Despite this, Macron said that he had discussed this plan with NATO leaders and that several had agreed to it. The details of this plan are expected to be finalized in the coming days.
Biden has previously stated that no US personnel will be sent to the war zone in Ukraine, and the White House reiterated this stance on Friday evening. This topic was not brought up during the meeting between Biden and Macron, where brief statements were issued and no questions were allowed.
In an official statement, the White House described the meeting as a reflection on the historical relationship between the two countries and their commitment to a Europe that is whole, free, and at peace. Macron also expressed confidence in an agreement between France and the US to use interest earned on frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine. The two countries are also working towards securing a $50 billion loan from all G7 members.
The leaders also welcomed the release of four more hostages by Israel in the Gaza Strip. Biden reiterated the US's commitment to working towards the release of all hostages and achieving a ceasefire. Macron expressed concern over the number of casualties in the ongoing conflict and criticized Israel for not opening all border crossings for humanitarian aid.
Earlier in the day, Macron welcomed Biden with full military honors at a ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The two leaders laid a wreath and held a minute of silence at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. In the evening, they attended a state banquet at the Élysée Palace, where they emphasized the strong friendship and solidarity between their two countries.
During his speech, Macron stated that France and the US have a special relationship based on their shared love for freedom and their willingness to stand by each other in times of need. Biden also highlighted the historical significance of this relationship, referring to how the two countries have stood by each other in securing their freedom. He also emphasized the importance of their alliance in shaping the future.
Macron described the bond between Washington and Paris as unshakeable, even in the face of their differences, as long as their shared values are at stake. This was Biden's first state visit of 2022, and he has been in France since Wednesday, attending ceremonies to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
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