On the Paris-Moscow line, French President Emmanuel Macron is trying to convince Vladimir Putin. It is February 20 and Macron’s advisers believe Putin will agree to meet US President Joe Biden in Geneva. Four days before the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Putin suddenly changes the subject of the conversation and starts talking about sports. “This is a proposal that deserves to be taken into consideration,” Putin said. “However, if you want it to be in line with how it should be worded, I suggest we ask our advisors to call as soon as possible…but please understand that I agree in principle.” “Very well, so you confirm, that you agree in principle and I suggest that our teams… after this phone call try to draft a joint statement?” Macron asks. “Honestly, I wanted to go This article is exclusive content for Denník N subscribers. Are you a subscriber? Log in