What's happened
France's President Macron sends missiles to Ukraine, faces Russian aggression and propaganda, and increases gas payments to Russia despite criticism for lack of support.
Why it matters
The evolving French stance on Ukraine, from military support to facing Russian aggression and propaganda, highlights the complexities of European geopolitics and the challenges of balancing national interests with international obligations. Macron's shift towards a more assertive position impacts not only France's relations with Russia but also the broader European security landscape.
What the papers say
Politico reports criticism from French social democratic candidate Glucksmann towards Macron for inadequate support to Ukraine, contrasting Macron's actions with his rhetoric. The Economist delves into the escalating tensions between France and Russia, detailing Russian aggression and propaganda efforts targeting France and Ukraine.
How we got here
France's relationship with Russia has been strained by the conflict in Ukraine, with Macron facing pressure to support Ukraine more robustly while managing France's energy dependence on Russia. The recent escalation in tensions, including military threats and cyber-attacks, underscores the complexities of France's position in the European security landscape.
More on these topics
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
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France, officially the French Republic, is a country consisting of metropolitan France in Western Europe and several overseas regions and territories.
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Emmanuel Jean-Michel Frédéric Macron is a French politician who has been President of France and ex officio Co-Prince of Andorra since 14 May 2017.