France Commits to Equipping Battalions Against Russia

• Financial

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky embarked on an unexpected journey to Paris on Sunday, engaging in a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. The encounter, held within the walls of the prestigious Elysee Palace, extended over a remarkable three-hour span, culminating in a joint statement that unequivocally denounced the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Ukraine and France Demand Russia's Withdrawal

Both leaders resolutely demanded that Russia promptly and unconditionally withdraw its armed forces from Ukraine, with particular emphasis on the Zaporozhye nuclear power plant.

The Russian occupation and militarization of this facility, as stated in the joint declaration, presented a grave and irresponsible menace. Furthermore, the statement highlighted France's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Ukraine.

"In the forthcoming weeks, France shall dedicate itself to the training and equipping of multiple battalions, comprising a considerable number of armored vehicles and light tanks, including the esteemed AMX-10RC," proclaimed the leaders in their collective address.

They further advocated for the implementation of fresh sanctions against Moscow, intending to debilitate Russia's capacity to persist in its illicit and aggressive warfare. Additionally, the statement pledged that France would undertake the extensive training of numerous battalions and furnish them with a significant assortment of armored vehicles and light tanks.

It further expressed Paris's concentrated efforts towards bolstering Ukrainian air defense capabilities.

Ukraine's President Engages in High-Level Diplomatic Meetings

"Ukraine embodies every facet of the European ideal: the audacity of conviction, the fight for values and liberty, and the unwavering dedication to peace and unity," articulated European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during the prestigious Charlemagne award ceremony held in Aachen.

For German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Russia's hostile actions against its neighbor have conclusively solidified the notion that Ukraine is an integral part of the European family. Upon arriving at the Villacoublay airbase, situated southwest of Paris, Zelensky promptly conveyed his sentiments through a tweet, stating, "Ties with Europe are growing stronger, and the pressure on Russia is intensifying...(sic).

Paris. With each visit, Ukraine's defensive and offensive capabilities are expanding." The joint statement further cautioned about the imposition of forthcoming sanctions against Russia, with the two leaders concurring on the imperative to escalate collective pressure through these measures.

The objective is to undermine Russia's ability to continue waging its illegal campaign of aggression. Preceding his rendezvous in Paris, Zelensky embarked on a visit to Rome on Saturday, where he engaged in discussions with the President and Prime Minister of Italy.

Subsequently, on Sunday, he embarked on an official visit to Berlin, where he met with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier.