PARIS: President Emmanuel Macron of France has declared the imminent delivery of approximately 40 Scalp long-range missiles, also known as Storm Shadow, along with “several hundred bombs” to Ukraine.
This announcement underscores France’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense against the ongoing Russian invasion and serves as a crucial step in bolstering Ukraine’s capabilities.
President Macron, in an address, outlined the delivery plan and revealed his intention to visit Ukraine in the coming month. The visit aims to finalize a bilateral security agreement between France and Ukraine, akin to the recent agreement signed between Ukraine and the United Kingdom on January 12, 2024.
The agreement with the UK, inked by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, focuses on enhancing Ukraine’s security infrastructure.
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The trip to Ukraine by the French President is anticipated against the backdrop of geopolitical complexities and political disputes within the United States and the European Union. These challenges have led to delays in crucial aid packages for Ukraine, adding urgency to bilateral agreements for enhanced security.
The proposed security agreement between France and Ukraine is designed to equip Ukraine with the necessary tools to defend itself effectively and act as a deterrent against potential future Russian aggression.
President Macron’s commitment to delivering advanced weaponry, including Scalp missiles, signals France’s alignment with Ukraine’s strategic interests and the broader geopolitical implications of countering Russian influence.
President Macron underscored the critical importance of preventing Russia from subduing Ukraine, emphasizing that the security of Europe is at stake. The pledged delivery of sophisticated weaponry to Ukraine serves as a tangible manifestation of international solidarity against aggression, reflecting the global community’s commitment to upholding the sovereignty and security of nations in the face of regional tensions.
