French President Emmanuel Macron said on Friday that peace negotiations over the war in Ukraine cannot move forward without the participation of European countries, stressing that Ukraine is a central issue for Europe.

Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Macron said a stronger Europe would be better for its allies, including the United States.

He said Europe had recently been sidelined and that the European Union had faced criticism as an outdated entity that had lost relevance, arguing for a stronger European role in security matters.

“There will be no peace without Europeans, and you will not be able to negotiate without Europeans. Be sure of that. If we are not at the negotiating table, Ukrainians will not be at the negotiating table,” Macron said.

He also voiced support for U.S. President Donald Trump’s stated desire to bring “peace” to Ukraine.