Macron announces crucial security deal with Ukraine
French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Tuesday that he will travel to Ukraine in February to finalise a bilateral security agreement. Under this accord, Paris will supply more sophisticated weaponry, including long-range cruise missiles, as reported by Reuters.
This visit comes amidst internal political struggles in the United States and the European Union, which have stalled two major aid packages for Ukraine.
Macron revealed that around 40 long-range SCALP missiles and several hundred bombs will be delivered in the coming weeks. "We will provide much more equipment and assist Ukraine with what it needs to defend its skies," stated Macron during a press conference. "I will personally go to Ukraine in February and finalise these agreements."
France has already delivered approximately 50 SCALP missiles, with a range of about 250 km—three times greater than Ukraine's existing missile capabilities. Macron emphasised that Europeans will escalate their support for Ukraine in the coming weeks to enable it to continue defending itself against Russia. He highlighted the critical importance of not allowing Moscow to prevail over Ukraine, as it would jeopardise Europe's security.
The Ukrainian Minister of Defense is set to be in Paris on Thursday, according to the French Ministry of Defense. In June, the G7 countries presented an international framework for Ukraine's long-term security to bolster its finances and defence against Russia, discouraging Moscow from future aggression, officials stated.
Ukraine has been pressing for long-term security commitments from its major supporters. While France has been in bilateral negotiations since June, there have been few details about what the countries are willing to do. As the war enters its third year, questions arise about the extent of the allies' commitment to Kiev.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
