This would be a new sign of France’s growing commitment alongside Kyiv. The Kremlin has already declared that Moscow would consider French instructors as “legitimate targets”.
This Friday marks Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s fourth visit to Paris since Russia’s massive invasion of Ukraine in February 2022
After a welcoming ceremony with military honors, Mr. Zelensky will deliver a speech to the National Assembly, followed by a meeting with a Franco-German defense company that manufactures artillery guns used in Ukraine.
Later in the afternoon, heads of state will sign two agreements providing €650 million in loans and grants to Ukraine to support it in sectors such as energy and transportation, who were targeted by Russia(**.**)(Ukraine: Russian attack on infrastructure)
But the big question today is: will Emmanuel Macron announce the sending of French instructors to train Ukrainian troops in their country?
If today’s announcement confirms the plans – or rumors – in this direction, it will be a new sign of France’s growing commitment alongside Kyiv, as well as a new, even stronger, message in this meaning in Moscow.
The Kremlin has already said that Moscow will not refrain from attacking Ukrainian targets even in the presence of foreign personnel.
Another major problem with the visit is that it coincides with the timing of the European elections — voting in France will take place on Sunday.
Several candidates denounced this state visit as a tool for Mr. Macron to gain votes for his party, Renaissance, led by Valerie Hayerwhich is currently behind schedule more than 15 points compared to the French far right.