French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated that Paris has never ruled out dialogue with Russia, provided there is full transparency with Ukraine, according to his interview with Libération.
Barrot emphasized that Europe needs direct contact with Russia to defend its own interests.
“Europeans, who are currently the main financial and military sponsors of Ukraine, must have a channel to assert their interests, without delegating responsibility to anyone else,” said the French foreign minister.
He added that, according to France’s observations, Russian President Vladimir Putin shows no real signs of wanting to move toward peace. This is evidenced, in particular, by recent Russian attacks on civilians, including the shelling of the passenger train “Barvinkove–Lviv, Chop,” which Barrot described as a war crime.
The French diplomat also emphasized that Ukraine can count on support.
“Today, 100% of financial aid to Ukraine comes from Europe. The bulk of intelligence and military support also comes from Europe… Ukraine knows it can rely on the unwavering support of Europeans,” Barrot concluded.
