Macron stands for maintaining continual contact with Putin

WASHINGTON. Dec 5 (Interfax) - French President Emmanuel Macron has noted the need for direct dialogue with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.

"I always maintain regular discussions and direct contact with President Putin, because I believe that the best way to reengage is to preserve this direct channel," Macron said in an interview with CBS, adding that isolation was the worst thing under the circumstances.

"The only way to find a solution would be through negotiations. I don't see a military option on the ground," Macron said, adding he was not engaged in any unofficial talks with Russia or Ukraine.

He added that France and other Western nations did not seek to "destroy Russia."

"It has never been our perspective in France," Macron said.

"More than that, we have very close relations from a cultural and historical point of view. And we have always respected the Russian people," he said.