France Open to Use of Missiles on Russian Territory by Ukraine
French Foreign Minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, has confirmed that the use of French missiles on Russian territory by Ukrainian forces is still under consideration. The statement was issued on his arrival in Brussels for a foreign ministers meeting. This was first suggested by French President Emmanuel Macron in Meseberg, Germany on May 25th, and it still remains an option if strikes on Russian territories—which attack Ukrainian territory—are to be authorized.
France’s Support for Ukraine
France has provided Ukraine with Scalp medium-range surface-to-air missiles. However, the exact quantity of missiles delivered and their usage by Ukrainian forces has not been disclosed. The potential use of these missiles on Russian territory was brought up last month in Brussels, but French Defense Minister, Sebastien Lecornu, declined to comment.
US Authorization for Ukraine Strikes on Russian Territory
In a significant strategic shift, the United States has authorized Ukraine to strike Russian territory with US-supplied long-range missiles. This move comes just before the commencement of Donald Trump’s presidential term. These missiles, capable of covering several hundred kilometers, would enable Ukraine to target Russian military logistics sites and airfields from which bombers are launched.
The US-supplied ATACMS missiles are planned to be initially deployed in the Russian border region of Kursk. This area has reportedly seen the deployment of North Korean soldiers in support of Russian troops. The decision by Washington to authorize Ukraine’s use of these missiles is a response to the deployment of North Korean troops, as per officials.
