France (Commonwealth Union)_ According to French President Emmanuel Macron, the Russia-Ukraine war had entered an unprecedented phase. Hence, he announced that France will supply radar and air defense weapons to Ukraine in order to support the nation in defending itself against Russian drone and missile assaults. During a media interview, President Macron made his remarks, but did not specify the type or quantity of anti-aircraft missiles that will be provided.
This week’s series of strikes on Ukrainian cities have escalated the stakes, prompting Kyiv to demand that its partners deliver further supplies, including air defense systems, something Paris has thus far been hesitant to provide. According to President Macron, “This is a new phase of bombing coming from land, sea, air and drones against essential infrastructure and civilians”. He stated that radar and anti-air missiles will be sent next week in order to defend the country against drone and missile strikes.
Â
Ukraine had already received Mistral shoulder-launched anti-aircraft missiles from France. According to a source familiar with the matter, France would send Crotale short-range anti-air missiles, which are utilized to intercept low-flying missiles and aircraft. After repeated complaints that France has not been doing enough, Ukraine’s defense ministry shared a video on social media last week to encourage France to demonstrate its affection through military deliveries. It was unclear whether the latest announcement would alter the notion that France’s military support is insufficient. He said: “We cannot deliver as much as the Ukrainians ask for because we need to keep some to protect our eastern flank. We are protecting our national territory.”
President Macron also said that he had reached an agreement with Denmark to redirect six Caesar howitzer cannons that had been ordered for Ukraine. According to diplomats, the technical specifics of this transaction have still not been confirmed. According to the French defense ministry, it was deploying additional tanks to Romania, Rafale fighter planes to Lithuania, and soldiers to Estonia in an effort to bolster NATO’s eastern flank. There was no mention of Ukraine. President Macron reaffirmed that he hoped a diplomatic deal would be reached between Ukraine and Russia to stop the war, but stressed that it would have to be on Kyiv’s terms. “Today, first of all, Vladimir Putin must stop this war, respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity and come back to the table for talks,” the French leader said.
