Kiev, October 20, 2024 – The Europe Today: French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot reaffirmed France’s unwavering support for Ukraine during his visit to Kiev, announcing that France would work to rally Western nations behind Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s “victory plan.” Speaking at a joint press conference with his Ukrainian counterpart, Andrey Sibiga, Barrot stressed the importance of Ukraine’s resistance against Russian aggression.
“A Russian victory would be a consecration for the law of the strongest and would push the international order towards chaos,” Barrot stated, emphasizing the need to bolster international backing for Zelensky’s vision.
Zelensky’s five-point plan, unveiled earlier this week, calls for Ukraine’s immediate admission into NATO and the removal of restrictions on the use of longer-range foreign weapons for strikes within Russian territory. While some aspects of the plan have been met with caution by Western partners, Barrot signaled France’s openness to the idea of Ukraine joining NATO, affirming ongoing discussions with NATO allies.
Barrot also announced that France would deliver the first batch of Mirage 2000 fighter jets to Ukraine by early 2025. Ukrainian pilots and technicians are currently undergoing training in preparation for the jets, which Kiev argues are crucial for shifting the dynamics on the battlefield. Russian forces have been making steady advances in the Donbass region in recent months.
Moscow, meanwhile, has dismissed Zelensky’s plan, with Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova describing it as “a set of incoherent slogans,” and reiterating that no amount of foreign military aid would deter Russian forces in Ukraine.
Despite the ongoing conflict, France remains committed to supporting Ukraine, both militarily and diplomatically. Barrot’s visit underscores Paris’ determination to strengthen ties with Kiev and bolster Ukraine’s defense efforts.
