The Prime Minister today spoke to French President Emmanuel Macron and congratulated him on his recent election victory.

The leaders pledged to reinvigorate Anglo-French ties, working together to tackle common issues including the cost of living, threats from autocratic states and global energy security.

On Ukraine, Prime Minister and President Macron were united in condemning Putin’s assassination and agreed to more closely coordinate measures aimed at isolating Russia, along with long-term security and economic support for Ukraine.

The prime minister reflected on his visit to Kyiv last month and shared his belief that Ukraine would win, backed by the right level of defensive military aid. He urged Russia not to negotiate terms that would give credence to the Kremlin’s false narrative about the invasion, but insisted it was a Ukrainian government decision.

They shared their concerns about the consequences of Ukraine’s invasion of global energy and food prices, and agreed to work through the G7 to reduce impacts at the national level and in developing economies. The leaders also discussed opportunities for economic and technical cooperation between the UK and France, boosting jobs and growth in both countries.

On the Northern Ireland Protocol, the Prime Minister noted the UK’s continuing serious concerns about the operation of the Protocol and reiterated the need for significant changes to protect peace and stability in Northern Ireland.

The leaders expected to speak again with the G7 as usual in the coming days and agreed to remain in close contact.