France Backs Ukraine's Victory Plan Amid Ongoing Conflict with Russia
On October 19, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot reaffirmed France's commitment to supporting Ukraine's ambitious plan for achieving victory in the ongoing conflict with Russia. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy unveiled this strategic initiative on October 16, aiming to compel Russia to halt its invasion through diplomatic negotiations by next year.
During a two-day visit to Kyiv, Barrot emphasized the global implications of the conflict, stating that a Russian victory would represent a triumph of might over law, further destabilizing the international order. 'Our exchanges should allow us to make progress on President Zelenskiy's victory plan and rally the greatest number possible of countries around it,' he articulated in a joint press conference with Ukrainian counterpart Andriy Sybiha.
Barrot underscored that the reality for Ukraine transcends mere territorial integrity; Ukrainians are also safeguarding European values and distinguishing freedom from oppression in the face of Vladimir Putin's aggression.
In a demonstration of military support, Barrot announced the planned delivery of the first batch of Mirage 2000 combat jets to Ukraine in the first quarter of 2025. This initiative includes training for Ukrainian pilots and mechanics on how to fly and maintain these aircraft. France's support has been robust since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, marking it as one of Ukraine's strongest allies in Europe.
Moreover, Barrot highlighted that a new brigade of Ukrainian soldiers is being prepared for frontline deployment under French supervision, enhancing Ukraine’s military capabilities.
Barrot's visit comes against a backdrop of escalating tensions, with Russia recently launching drone strikes on Kyiv. Reports from the city’s military administration indicated that one woman suffered serious injuries in the attacks that also caused damage to residential areas and vehicles.
On the Russian side, Moscow claimed its air defenses successfully intercepted 16 Ukrainian drones in regions including Bryansk, Rostov, and Belgorod. Furthermore, the Russian Defense Ministry reported advances in the Donetsk region, including the capture of the village of Zoryane—part of a broader strategy to encroach upon the industrial hub of Kurakhove.
With the situation on the ground remaining precarious, local officials in Pokrovsk have urged residents to evacuate the area, as ongoing military actions may pose significant risks.
This complex landscape of conflict continues to evolve, and the implications of international support remain critical for Ukraine as it navigates its challenges against a backdrop of global geopolitical tensions.
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