Macron and Zelensky agree “on the need to increase collective pressure on Russia” through sanctions
May 15. (EUROPE PRESS) –
The President of France, Emmanuel Macron, has promised new military aid to his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodimir Zelenski, this Sunday in the Elysée, within the framework of the European tour that the Ukrainian president has carried out these days.
“The military support given by France since the beginning of the war so that Ukraine can defend itself continues, as new equipment is being prepared, constantly taking into account the most urgent and immediate needs of Ukraine to strengthen its defense capabilities,” reads a joint statement.
Macron has announced that Paris, which has the goal of “providing full capabilities in all areas,” will train and equip several Ukrainian battalions with “dozens of armored vehicles and light tanks.” In addition, he has stressed that, apart from military aid, he will continue to provide political, financial and humanitarian support to the Ukrainians “as long as it is necessary.”
Both presidents have agreed on “the need to increase collective pressure on Russia through more sanctions to weaken Russia’s ability to continue its illegal war of aggression.”
In this sense, they have stressed that countries have to “redouble their efforts to guarantee the effective application of sanctions”, as well as to work in order to prevent and counteract their evasion.
They have also stressed that “there should be no impunity”, for which Macron has reaffirmed his support for the investigations of the International Criminal Court (ICC) with the aim of bringing the perpetrators of war crimes to justice.
“We are working for the creation of an ad hoc court. And the new International Center for the prosecution of the crime of aggression against Ukraine must be launched as soon as possible,” said the French president.
For his part, Zelensky, who has thanked Macron “and all the people of France” for the military support for his “warriors”, because “it helps in the fight against Russian terrorists”, has stated that together they are “bringing peace closer to all Ukrainians and Europeans”.
Zelenski, who has met with his “friend Emmanuel” to discuss “the most important points of bilateral relations”, stressed before his arrival in Paris that “with each visit, Ukraine’s defensive and offensive capabilities expand. “Ties with Europe are strengthening and the pressure on Russia is growing,” he said on his Twitter profile.
Macron, also on his social networks, wanted to “conclude” by paying “tribute to the determination and courage of the people and the Ukrainian Armed Forces”. “Not only do you defend your nation under attack by Russia, but you also contribute to the security of our continent, Europe,” Macron concluded.
