France's Macron seeks to restart European dialogue with Russia's Putin

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced efforts to reopen a diplomatic dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin, describing it as a 'European approach.' Macron's top diplomatic advisor visited Moscow for talks, and technical preparations are reportedly underway for a potential phone call between the two leaders.

The Kremlin confirmed that contacts with France are happening at a working level and stated Putin is ready for dialogue. However, Russian officials also criticized France's diplomacy as 'pathetic.' Macron's initiative has drawn attention amid concerns about the future of European security and the potential for a renewed U.S. foreign policy under Trump.

Macron stated that if the war in Ukraine ends, Europe will need 'rules of coexistence' with Russia. He argued that Europe must become a stronger geopolitical power to avoid being 'swept away' in the coming years. The push for dialogue comes as European leaders, including Macron and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, call for increased support for Ukraine.