France Set to Deploy Military Trainers to Ukraine Amid Rising Tensions with Russia
France has announced its intention to send military trainers to Ukraine in a move aimed at strengthening the war-torn nation's defenses against Russian aggression. Ukrainian military chief Oleksandr Syrsky confirmed the development on Monday, stating that relevant documents have been signed to initiate the deployment of French instructors. The French Ministry of Defense also acknowledged that training on Ukrainian soil had been a topic of discussion since a support conference held by President Emmanuel Macron on February 26.
This initiative comes as Ukraine continues its over two-year-long defense against Russian aggression. French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu mentioned upcoming deliveries of advanced military equipment, including Caesar guns, Aster air defense missiles, and Scalp cruise missiles, enhancing support for Ukraine. The minister also indicated that more aid packages are under consideration, though specifics were not disclosed.
Emmanuel Macron had previously suggested the possibility of sending Western troops to Ukraine, a proposal that caused a stir among NATO allies. Both Britain and Germany openly opposed the idea, arguing it could lead to an escalation of the conflict with Russia. Despite opposition, Macron's stance has found some support among Ukraine's eastern European allies. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis recently expressed readiness to join a coalition of countries to organize military training for Ukraine.
While France's initiative aims to bolster Ukraine’s defenses, it has elicited a sharp reaction from Russia. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accused NATO of escalating the situation by indulging in 'warlike ecstasy.' Peskov also referenced discussions about lifting restrictions on the use of Western weapons against Russian targets, citing NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg's remarks about the legal grounds for attacking military objectives outside Ukraine under the right to self-defense.
- Peskov's comments came during a state visit by President Vladimir Putin to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. He emphasized that any deployment of Western troops to Ukraine would be seen as a significant escalation, potentially leading to a wider conflict between Russia and NATO.
- France's plan to send military instructors to Ukraine is part of a broader strategy to provide comprehensive military support to bolster Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. The initiative also reflects France's diplomatic efforts to engage other NATO members in supporting Ukraine, despite the evident divisions within the alliance.
