France is preparing a new military aid package for Ukraine, estimated at nearly €200 million (approximately $211 million), derived from the interest gained on frozen Russian assets, as revealed by Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu in a recent interview with the Le Monde. Lecornu described the suspension of U.S. weapon deliveries to Ukraine as a “heavy blow” to the country’s defense against the ongoing Russian invasion.

He stated, “This year we will mobilise, thanks to the interests of frozen Russian assets, a new package of €195 million for Ukraine,” which aims to facilitate the supply of 155-millimeter shells and AASM air-to-surface weapons intended for the French Mirage 2000 fighter jets already provided to Ukraine for combat.

Despite the aid, Lecornu did not disclose whether France might consider utilizing the frozen Russian assets themselves for Ukraine, a more substantial move that has attracted support from the UK, although Paris has been cautious thus far. He emphasized the broader implications of the conflict, noting that “the Russians are reinventing war” by targeting democratic institutions and economies.

Additionally, Lecornu raised concerns about the 2027 French presidential elections, suggesting they could be vulnerable to manipulation, as witnessed in prior events in Romania. He also sought to temper fears about disruptions in transatlantic relations following changes in U.S. policy under former President Donald Trump, asserting, “For my part, I still consider them as allies, despite their great unpredictability.”

In light of the U.S. suspension of military support, he acknowledged, “Ukraine can hold out for a while, but this suspension must not last.” Looking into the future, Lecornu indicated that French intelligence has found no immediate threats of Russian attacks on NATO countries. However, he cautioned about potential destabilization efforts in Moldova stemming from its breakaway region of Transnistria.

As President Macron and other leaders urge European Union states to enhance their defence budgets, Lecornu highlighted ammunition and electronic warfare capabilities as urgent priorities for the French military, mentioning the increasing importance of drone technology and artificial intelligence in modern warfare.

For more details, visit SCMP and Voice of America.