French President Emmanuel Macron stated in a televised interview with CBS, published on Saturday, that his country is prepared to impose sanctions on Russia if it exhibits "unacceptable behavior" such as invading Ukraine. Macron stressed the importance of "defining clear red lines" with Moscow, even to the extent of imposing sanctions if necessary, noting that sanctions alone are not enough and there is a "need for a candid dialogue with them."
In the interview, Macron affirmed that "we must define clear red lines with Russia," expressing his readiness to impose sanctions should Moscow display "unacceptable behavior." Responding to a question about possible measures against Moscow in the event of an invasion of Ukraine, amid Russia amassing troops at the border, he said, "I think it would be unacceptable behavior; we must indeed impose sanctions." He added, "I believe we need to establish clear red lines with Russia."
While emphasizing that sanctions alone are "not enough" and that a "constructive dialogue" is preferable, he considered that sanctions represent "the only way to be credible." He stated, "We need an open and honest dialogue with Russia."
Russia is accused of deploying tens of thousands of soldiers near its border with Ukraine and in Crimea, which it annexed in 2014, while fighting has recently resumed after a ceasefire was reached in the summer of 2020.
U.S. President Joe Biden announced on Thursday a series of strict financial sanctions against Russia, as well as expelling ten Russian diplomats, while also reiterating his offer to hold a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This decision followed a series of actions attributed to Moscow, including a massive cyberattack and interference in last year's U.S. elections. Additionally, sanctions were imposed on eight individuals and entities linked to the "occupation" of Crimea.
Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel reaffirmed their support for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday, urging Russia to withdraw its troops from the border and to act swiftly to "ease tensions."
