Trump pauses military aid to Ukraine after Oval Office argument with Zelensky, White House official says
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Macron, Orbán Meet Prior to EU Summit
Above: French Pres. Emmanuel Macron and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban shake hands as they meet for a meeting at Elysee Palace on June 26, 2024 in Paris, France. Image copyright: Remon Haazen/Contributor/Getty Images via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
It's vital that Macron convinces Orbán that the EU must maintain strong support for Ukraine through increased defense spending and security guarantees, as backing away now would only embolden Russian aggression and threaten European security. A unified European response is crucial to fill the void left by diminishing US support, and peace through strength remains the most effective strategy to achieve lasting stability.
Right narrative
Continuing to arm Ukraine only prolongs the conflict and leads to unnecessary loss of life. The realistic path forward is through immediate ceasefire and direct negotiations with Russia, following Pres. Donald Trump's wise approach. The EU's current strategy of unlimited military support is unsustainable and counterproductive to achieving peace. Macron may try his best to convince Orbán otherwise, but the European establishment will have to swallow its pride and accept reality.