The spokesperson for the Russian presidency, Dmitry Peskov, deemed France’s plans to supply Ukraine with long-range missiles as a “misguided decision with consequences for Kyiv.” Speaking to reporters, Peskov stated that “France’s decision to transfer long-range missiles to Ukraine will compel Russia to take retaliatory measures,” affirming that the French decision will not affect the course of the special military operation. He added, “Of course, there is still a need for clarification and specification regarding the extent of the discussion. From our perspective, this decision is misguided and will have consequences for the Ukrainian side, as it will naturally force us to take responsive measures.”
Peskov further reiterated their initial approach towards such decisions, stating that “these decisions cannot affect the course of events within the framework of the special military operation. They can only increase the burden on the Kyiv regime.” Earlier today, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France had decided to send long-range missiles to Ukraine to support the Ukrainian forces’ counteroffensive.
Macron stated during a press statement on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Vilnius, “We have decided to increase the supply of weapons and equipment to Ukraine. We reaffirm our commitment to allowing Kyiv to defend its territory, and we have decided to provide them with new missiles that will enable them to strike deep.”
The NATO summit, attended by all alliance member leaders, including US President Joe Biden, is scheduled for July 11th and 12th. Earlier, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan confirmed that Ukraine would not become a member of NATO during the upcoming summit in Vilnius.
