French President Emmanuel Macron said Russia was seeking to "destroy Ukraine through terror" and called for increased pressure on Moscow. Macron made the remarks following a Russian-origin double strike on a shopping center in the Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih. The attack resulted in numerous civilian deaths.
Macron said he had spoken with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after the attack and conveyed his horror and sadness over what had happened. He said Russia was "continuing and intensifying its crime of aggression" against Kyiv and through other attacks carried out during the week.
Macron calls for pressure on Moscow
The French president described the systematic targeting of civilians, the policy of intimidation and methods of escalating tensions as signs of Russia’s pursuit of a show of strength. Macron argued that this was also an admission of weakness.
According to Macron, pressure on Moscow should be increased as long as Russia refuses to halt the hostilities. The French president said this pressure should continue until steps are taken toward peace and a ceasefire.
Missile defense support for Ukraine
Macron announced that France would strengthen its support for Ukraine by delivering interceptors for use in missile defense systems. Saying that cooperation במסגרת the Missile Defense Coalition would continue, Macron also called on other countries with the relevant capabilities to join the effort.
Zelenskyy announced that he and Macron had agreed to accelerate the delivery of French military equipment and missiles. The Ukrainian leader thanked Macron for confirming his readiness to grant licenses for the production of the missiles.
Diplomacy and defense financing
The two leaders also discussed Ukraine’s diplomatic efforts with its partners and communication with the team of U.S. President Donald Trump. Zelenskyy said they had agreed on steps that could create additional diplomatic opportunities.
The talks also covered the funding Ukraine needs to support its defense this year and next year, as well as accelerating bilateral defense agreements. Following the meeting, which lasted about two hours, Zelenskyy said they appreciated Macron’s support for contacting partners that possess the missiles needed for Patriot systems.
Preparations for the coalition of the willing meeting
Macron and Zelenskyy also discussed preparations for the "coalition of the willing" meeting planned for Monday. The leaders reviewed peace efforts that respect Ukraine’s rights, as well as security guarantees for Ukraine and Europe.
