Macron emphasizes defeat of Russia in Ukraine for European security
French President Emmanuel Macron emphasizes the importance of defeating Russia in Ukraine for the security of Europe. European leaders have agreed to establish a coalition to provide Ukraine with medium- and long-range missiles and bombs. While there is no consensus on sending Western troops to Ukraine, Macron does not exclude the possibility. Russian troops have made recent gains in Ukraine, leading to urgent requests for weapons supplies from Kyiv.
Macron's stance on defeating Russia in Ukraine
French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that it is crucial to defeat Russia in Ukraine for the security and stability of Europe. He made these remarks during a meeting in Paris where European leaders agreed to form a coalition to supply Ukraine with medium- and long-range missiles and bombs.
Macron emphasized that Russia is the sole aggressor and highlighted that the goal is not to be at war with the Russian people but to prevent them from winning. He emphasized the necessity of Russia's defeat for European security.
Although Macron did not specify when the weapons would be delivered, he did mention the possibility of sending Western ground troops to Ukraine. He acknowledged that there are differences among the allies but stated that nothing should be excluded when it comes to stopping Russia from winning the war.
Challenges faced by Ukraine in obtaining aid
As Russian troops have made recent gains in Ukraine, Kyiv is facing significant armament shortages. The country heavily relies on modern supplies from its Western allies, especially the US, to continue the fight against Russia's larger military force.
However, the approval of a $95 billion US aid package, which includes $61 billion for Ukraine, is facing obstacles in the House of Representatives. Ukrainian Defense Minister reported that half of the Western aid meant for Kyiv has been delayed, leading to loss of lives and territory.
Russia initiated a full-scale invasion of Ukraine three years ago, making it the largest war in Europe since World War Two. With no signs of the conflict coming to an end, the need for immediate and effective aid for Ukraine is crucial.
International support for Ukraine
A crisis meeting was held in support of Ukraine, attended by heads of European states and top government officials. The meeting included German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron, and delegations from the US and Canada.
President Macron declared that a coalition would supply Ukraine with medium- and long-range missiles and bombs for deep strikes. While there is no official consensus on sending troops, Macron stated that the possibility shouldn't be ruled out and emphasized that France maintains a strategic ambiguity on the matter.
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala clarified that his country will not deploy forces to fight in Ukraine. However, he acknowledged that some countries are considering the proposal, while others firmly oppose it. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude for the international support and highlighted the importance of joint efforts in defending against Russian aggression.
