Macron criticizes Putin and defends Zelenski: "He was democratically elected"
French President Emmanuel Macron defended Volodymyr Zelenski, stating that he was democratically elected, unlike Vladimir Putin, whom he accused of manipulating elections and eliminating opponents.
Macron on Zelensky and Putin: "One was freely elected, the other eliminates opponents"
French President Emmanuel Macron harshly criticized Russian leader Vladimir Putin, highlighting that, unlike Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Putin "was not freely elected and murders his political opponents."
???? "The Ukrainian president was elected by his people in free elections. This is not the case with Putin, who manipulates elections and eliminates his opponents." — Macron declared in an interview with the European press.
???? Macron on Zelensky : « the Ukrainian president was elected in free elections, it’s NOT the case for Putin who murders his political opponents and manipulates elections ». Take THAT, Donald Trump ! ???? pic.twitter.com/QAqOKeqRoa — Le Zelenskyste ???????????????? (@VolodimirZelen1) February 20, 2025
Macron's criticism and the context of the war
The French leader's comment comes amid the war in Ukraine and rising tensions between Europe and Russia. Macron has been one of the most vocal advocates for Ukraine's sovereignty, supporting sanctions against Moscow and sending military aid to Kiev.
???? Putin and political repression
The Russian president is often accused of repressing opponents, with cases such as that of politician Alexei Navalny, who was arrested and poisoned, as well as journalists and dissidents who face persecution.
???? Elections under suspicion
Russia will hold presidential elections this year, but several experts point out that Putin's regime does not allow for real competition, controlling the media and restricting the participation of the opposition.
France's support for Ukraine
Since the beginning of the Russian invasion, Macron has been one of Ukraine's main allies in Europe. France has sent weapons, financial resources and pressured the European Union to intensify sanctions against Moscow.
???? The French president reaffirmed his commitment to Kiev:
???? "Supporting Zelensky means supporting democracy and European values."
Macron's statement reinforces the growing divide between Western countries and Russia, at a critical moment in the war and global diplomatic relations.
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