M. Jean-Yves Le Drian, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, spoke to his Ukrainian counterpart M. Dmytro Kuleba today.
In this new discussion, the 12th this year between the two ministers, the Minister emphasized France's ongoing strategy in the Ukraine conflict and our determination to continue and deepen France's support to Ukraine in every sphere. In this respect, the Minister talked about the recent decisions taken by President Macron concerning the supply of defence equipment to the Ukrainian forces, in the artillery field in particular, given Ukraine's especially significant, urgent needs.
The two ministers also discussed the parameters of stronger European sanctions against Russia, supported by the French presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The two ministers discussed the tragic situation in Mariupol, the target of uninterrupted bombing by Russian forces. The Minister reiterated France's call for free movement of civilians and free access to humanitarian aid in the city, as in the rest of Ukraine.