French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot expressed his backing for Ukraine's proposed strategy to bring an end to the ongoing conflict with Russia during a visit to Kyiv. The plan, unveiled by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, aims to compel Russia to cease its invasion through diplomatic negotiations.
Barrot emphasized the importance of garnering international support for Ukraine's initiative, highlighting the potential consequences of a Russian victory on the global order. He underscored the need for collaboration with other nations to advance President Zelenskyy's plan and unite a broad coalition around it.
France has been a steadfast ally of Ukraine since the 2022 invasion, providing military, diplomatic, and economic assistance. The country is currently engaged in training and equipping a new brigade of Ukrainian soldiers for deployment on the front lines.
President Emmanuel Macron has advocated for a policy shift that would enable Ukraine to target Russian military installations with advanced weaponry supplied by Western allies, a proposal that aligns with Zelenskyy's strategic vision.
During his visit, Barrot announced France's plans to deliver Mirage 2000 combat jets to Ukraine in early 2025, further bolstering Ukraine's defense capabilities. He commended the Ukrainian people for their resilience in the face of adversity, emphasizing the significance of their role in safeguarding Europe's freedom.
Prisoner Exchange and Repatriation Efforts
The visit coincided with a prisoner swap between Russia and Ukraine facilitated by the United Arab Emirates, resulting in the return of 95 Ukrainian detainees, including Azov fighters who played a pivotal role in defending Mariupol.
In a separate development, the repatriation of 501 deceased soldiers marked a significant step in honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the conflict. The exchange of remains between the two sides underscored the human toll of the war and the ongoing efforts to address its humanitarian consequences.
Meanwhile, reports emerged of Russian forces intercepting Ukrainian drones over several regions, with unconfirmed accounts of a strike on a microelectronics factory in the Bryansk region.
As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, international attention remains focused on supporting efforts to achieve a lasting resolution to the conflict and uphold the principles of peace and sovereignty.
