Macron says talks with Trump on Ukraine and Red Sea were constructive

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday that his meeting with US President Donald Trump in New York had been very good and constructive.

Two main topics

The discussion centered on two issues — the situation in the Red Sea and the war in Ukraine. Macron noted that Red Sea security matters greatly for global prices, making it one of the key points raised. The two leaders then held a lengthy discussion on Ukraine and Russia.

Ahead of the meeting, a French official had said Macron intended to speak with Trump with complete openness.

Call to strengthen Ukraine's defenses

Macron said he pressed Trump to speed up deliveries of defense weapons systems to Ukraine, including missile interceptors. He described such support as an essential defensive measure. Macron characterized Trump as very receptive, adding that the two were able to discuss both conflicts in detail, calling them important for global peace and security.

Red Sea significance

The Red Sea has become a major oil transport route as the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked. However, the situation there is also complicated — Iran-backed Houthi fighters have gained control over the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, complicating shipping.

During the UN General Assembly, Macron also plans to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.