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Macron Warns Russia Not to Expect a Break as France Doubles Down on Support for Ukraine
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![Photo of Vlad Litnarovych]( "Photo of Vlad Litnarovych")
French President Emmanuel Macron said France’s commitment to supporting Ukraine will remain unchanged despite rising tensions in the Middle East, emphasizing that the war against Ukraine remains a central priority for Europe.
French President made the remarks speaking at a joint press conference in Paris with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on March 13.
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Macron said Russia should not assume that developments involving Iran will reduce international attention on the war.
“Perhaps Russia believes the war in Iran will give it some breathing space, but it is mistaken,” Macron said during the briefing.
Macron also highlighted what he described as contradictions in Moscow’s messaging regarding international conflicts.
“It is strange that Russia is calling for a ceasefire in the Middle East while avoiding one in Ukraine for over a year,” he said.
The French President also pointed to the longstanding relationship between Moscow and Tehran.
“I want to remind you that Russia is a historic and strategic ally of the regime in Iran,” Macron said, noting that the two countries maintain a strategic partnership agreement whose details have never been publicly disclosed.
He added that Iranian drones are currently being produced inside Russia, underlining the military cooperation between the two countries.
Macron stressed that European support for Ukraine remains substantial. According to the French leader, European Union countries have collectively provided around €200 billion in assistance to Ukraine since 2022.
“We will do everything possible to ensure that the €90 billion credit facility is unlocked and confirmed,” Macron said.
The financial package has been delayed due to opposition from Hungary, which has demanded that Ukraine resume the transit of Russian oil through the Druzhba pipeline, a route previously disrupted by Russian attacks.
Macron also said European governments are preparing additional pressure measures against Moscow.
According to him, the 20th EU sanctions package is currently being developed, along with new steps designed to reduce Russia’s ability to circumvent existing restrictions.
He argued that sustained pressure is necessary to push Moscow toward negotiations.
At the same time, Macron emphasized that the shifting global focus toward the Middle East will not weaken France’s position on Ukraine.
“At a moment when many eyes are turned toward Iran, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit carries particular importance for me,” Macron said.
“It allows me to reaffirm that nothing will divert our attention from Ukraine, which for more than four years has shown extraordinary determination and courage in resisting Russian aggression.”
“Our support will not weaken,” Macron added.
Earlier, reports emerged that British and French paratroopers made their final preparations before a possible peacekeeping mission to Ukraine.
-c439b7bd9030ecf9d5a4287dc361ba31.jpg "Photo of Katherina Popilnichenko")
