France aims to boost Ukraine's infrastructure with a funding of 650 million euros.
France provides extra 650 million euros in aid to Ukraine before Zelenskyy's visits to D-Day ceremonies.
France is set to enhance its aid to Ukraine with additional funds amounting to 650 million euros, just as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrives for the D-Day commemorations in Normandy. President Macron will be hosting Zelenskyy at the Elysee Palace where they will finalize two agreements.
Of these funds, the French Development Agency (AFD) is expected to receive 400 million euros in the form of loans and an additional 50 million euros in donations. These funds will primarily be used to support energy and transport projects in Ukraine as its supply remains severely impacted by Russian raids.
Macron also intends to launch a rebuilding support fund worth 200 million euros to help French companies rebuild infrastructure in Ukraine. Zelenskyy is among the invited guests to the 80th anniversary of the Allied landing in Normandy, an event which carries strong symbolism since Russia is not invited due to its invasion of Ukraine.
Historically, Russia had participated in the D-Day commemorations because it suffered the most casualties during World War II. However, Zelenskyy's visit is expected to be marked by an offer of military aid to Ukraine from France.
Plans from the Franco-German defense company KNDS to open a branch in Ukraine, announced in March, are now set to be implemented as well. There are also expectations of Zelenskyy meeting with US President Joe Biden in a sideline gathering during the event. Yet, confirmation on a meet with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz remains unsettled for the moment. Zelenskyy is further scheduled to address the French National Assembly.
Prior to these events, back at the 75th anniversary of the D-Day, former French President Francois Hollande and German Chancellor Angela Merkel (CDU) had discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Zelenskyy's predecessor Petro Poroshenko in the Normandy Format. The discussions then focused on finding a political resolution to Russia's annexation of Crimea.
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The additional 650 million euros from France will significantly aid Ukraine in rebuilding its damaged energy and transport infrastructure impacted by Russian raids. Despite Russia's absence from the D-Day commemorations due to its invasion of Ukraine, France is expected to offer military aid to Ukraine during Zelenskyy's visit. Due to France's support, a French company is planning to open a branch in Ukraine, contributing to the nation's infrastructure development.
