INTERNATIONAL
Macron optimistic Ukraine crisis will not lead to war
French President Emmanuel Macron is optimistic that the Ukraine crisis will not lead to war.
The BBC reports that Macron expresses hope a deal would be struck. He says Russia’s security concerns is legitimate.
He is due to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday.
Ahead of the meeting, Macron called for a “new balance” to protect European states and appease Russia.
He restated that the sovereignty of Ukraine was not up for discussion.
Russia has massed troops on Ukraine’s border but denies planning to invade.
Moscow has made a string of demands, including that Ukraine must not be admitted as a member of the Nato defence alliance.
Western countries have rejected this, instead suggesting other areas of negotiation.
