France is preparing a new military aid package for Ukraine valued at nearly 200 million euros ($217 million). This funding will come from the interest earned on frozen Russian assets, according to the country’s Defense Minister, Sebastien Lecornu. He made these statements in an interview published on February 26, 2025, in the Tribune Dimanche newspaper.
Lecornu, a close ally of President Emmanuel Macron, characterized the recent suspension of US weapons deliveries to Ukraine as a “heavy blow” to Kyiv’s struggle against the ongoing Russian invasion. He indicated that, for this year, France plans to mobilize a total of 195 million euros ($211 million) for Ukraine, which will facilitate the delivery of critical military supplies, including 155-millimeter shells and AASM air-to-surface weapons that are compatible with the French Mirage 2000 fighter jets provided to Ukraine.
Despite this substantial support, Lecornu refrained from commenting on whether France would consider using the frozen Russian assets directly to assist Ukraine—an action that the UK supports but which France has approached with caution. He expressed concern over Russian tactics, stating that they are “reinventing war” by targeting democracy and the economy in Western nations.
In discussing potential threats to democracy, Lecornu mentioned France’s upcoming presidential elections in 2027, warning of the possibility of “massive manipulations” similar to those encountered in Romania. There, the first-round election results were annulled by the constitutional court. Additionally, he addressed potential shifts in transatlantic relations post-Donald Trump’s presidency, asserting that the US remains an ally despite its unpredictability.
Lecornu emphasized the urgency of maintaining support for Ukraine given the suspension of US weapon deliveries, noting that while Ukraine can endure for a time, the suspension should not be prolonged. He also stated that French intelligence does not foresee any Russian attack on NATO member states within the next five years, although there are concerns regarding potential instability in Moldova, particularly through the breakaway region of Transnistria.
Looking ahead, Lecornu highlighted the need for increased defense spending among EU nations as US involvement fluctuates. He identified ammunition and electronic warfare as immediate priorities and underscored the importance of advancing towards a more technologically equipped military, focusing on drones, robotics, artificial intelligence, and space capabilities.
