By Marinel Peroy
Two years after the illegal and unprovoked war waged by Russia against Ukraine, France reaffirms its unconditional support for Ukraine. With support coming from the international community, a bilateral security agreement was also signed to reaffirm France’s long-term support to Ukraine.
During the visit of Ukraine’s Pres. Volodymyr Zelensky in Paris, President Emmanuel Macron said at the press conference that France is not at war with Russia or its people — but rather on a steadfast commitment to Ukraine in defeating Russia’s war of aggression.
“We are determined to stand by your side and defeat Russia’s war of aggression. The bravery of the Ukrainian resistance and the wave of unity inspired by your rightful struggle have already resulted in a series of strategic setbacks for Russia,” said Pres. Macron.
The French President also emphasized that by helping Ukrainian partners, it also serves as a way of investing in Europe’s security and strengthening the region’s industrial, technological and defense base, highlighting the eminent diplomatic responsibilities respecting international law.
“I would like to extend my thoughts to all Ukrainians especially those who have been uprooted from their homes and families due to the war, for those fighting at the front in Avdiivka in particular and elsewhere. Ukrainians today are fighting not only for their freedom but for European security, for the solidity of liberal democracies and defense of international law,” added Pres. Macron.
During a press conference in Makati City, French Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Marie Fontanel, shared the updates on the situation in Ukraine with France’s perspective on behalf of Pres. Macron. Ambassador Fontanel commended the courage and resilience of the Ukrainian people in the ongoing war against Russia’s brutal and unprovoked war.
The envoy also shared that France is committed to providing up to €3 billion in financial aid to Ukraine this year, after the €2.1 billion aid in 2023 and €1.7 billion in 2022, to support the fight of Ukraine to defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity. The financial support will also be used for military equipment, intelligence, civilian aid, and among others.
