French President Emmanuel Macron announced Wednesday the creation of a "French-German defense and security council" as Germany's new Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Paris.
"We will set up a French-German defense and security council to meet regularly to bring operational responses to our common strategic challenges," Macron said at a joint press conference, as Europe seeks to boost its defenses amid Russia's war against Ukraine and doubts over US security commitments to Europe.
Macron said that he doubted Vladimir Putin would respect a three-day truce in Ukraine and wondered if the Russian leader was "serious" about a durable peace.
"Beyond the three days promised, which will undoubtedly not be respected, like the previous ones, is the Russian president finally serious?" Macron said at the news conference. "Will he finally decide to keep his word, especially the promises he made in his discussions with the US administration? That is what matters to us."
Merz said for his part he was hopeful that a permanent ceasefire could be agreed soon for Ukraine but held back on making any commitments for Ukraine's security.
"We will be there to accompany this 30-day cease fire and build a lasting and solid peace. And we (France and Germany) are in close contact," Macron added.
