Ukraine's president receives more military aid in Paris
We're tackling the latest portion of the $61 billion US aid package that Congress approved in April after a lengthy hold-up. Biden issued an apology to Zelensky for the dragging delays. "Sorry for the period of uncertainty," said Biden. "A few of our particularly conservative senators have been causing the holdup," he explained. "The United States remains committed to your side," he promised the Ukrainians.
Prior to this, KNDS, a German-French tank manufacturer, disclosed intentions to build a factory in Ukraine for weapon and ammunition manufacturing. CEO Philippe Petitcollin signed the related deal with Zelensky. The details concerning the investment sum and nature of production remained undisclosed initially.
These plans had been previously floated in March when German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) and French counterpart Sébastien Lecornu convened. The French Defense Ministry later confirmed that 155mm shells would be produced under a license in Ukraine. The plans further encompassed a center for Caesar howitzer upkeep and a wing with 3D printers for fabricating spare parts.
Before that, Zelensky visited Normandy to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Allied landing. He used the occasion to request ongoing support for his nation.
The day before, Zelensky cautioned the French National Assembly about the potential escalation of the Russian strike war. "Putin is replicating Hitler's conduct from the '30s, crossing border after border," Zelensky cautioned the deputies, making eye contact with Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin.
"Aggression is already emerging in the Baltic States, Poland, and the Balkans," Zelensky said. The Russian leadership is "seeking a method to destabilize Europe," he added. Putin is utilizing "the arsenal of the previous century," including blockades and mass abductions of children for re-education.
Zelensky reiterated the need for assistance for his country. "What's necessary is: not to be alone," he claimed. "Efficient, ample, and prolonged support" is the solution, he contended.
The day prior, Macron declared his intention to dispatch an undefined number of Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets to Ukraine and train Ukrainian pilots in France by year's end.
Additionally, Macron confirmed his openness to deliver French military trainers to Ukraine. "The Ukrainians have requested it, and it doesn't entail escalation because they won't be used in combat," Macron said in a TV interview. A discussion with partners should take place, according to him.
On the other hand, Moscow reacted swiftly and harshly. "Macron is unabashedly exhibiting his unrestricted support for the Kiev regime and signalling his willingness for direct military engagement in the conflict," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov to Russian news agencies on Friday, during the international economic forum in St. Petersburg. Macron's statements were "highly inflationary."
Zelensky remains hopeful about the impending peace conference at the conclusion of the coming week in Switzerland, where Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) and US Vice President Kamala Harris will take part. This might potentially "bring a just conclusion to the war," Zelensky stressed. He'll be welcomed at the Elysee Palace by Macron in the evening.
