No ‘red ines’ in support for Ukraine, says top French diplomat

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot emphasized Sunday that there are no “red lines” in France’s ongoing support for Ukraine, highlighting the country’s willingness to continue providing assistance for as long as necessary to counter Russian aggression.

In an exclusive interview on the BBC’s Sunday morning talk show with Laura Kuenssberg, Barrot stated that Ukraine could use French long-range missiles to strike Russian targets “in the logic of self-defense.” However, he did not confirm whether French weapons had already been used in the war.

Barrot stressed that Western allies must not impose limits on their support for Ukraine, underscoring the need to avoid setting “red lines.” When asked about the potential deployment of French troops, he added, “We do not discard any option,” reaffirming France’s readiness to support Ukraine in all capacities necessary.

France reiterates support for Ukraine

“We will support Ukraine as strongly and as long as necessary,” Barrot stated. “Why? Because our own security is at stake.”

Barrot’s remarks align with President Emmanuel Macron’s earlier statement in February, where he also refused to rule out sending French ground troops to Ukraine, vowing that France would do everything in its power to ensure Russia does not prevail.

This comes after U.S. President Joe Biden authorized Ukraine to use Western-supplied weapons for strikes on Russian territory. In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that Moscow could target military facilities in countries allowing such actions.

Barrot’s comments further underline France’s commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s defense as the war continues to escalate, with each Russian advance inching closer to Europe.