Paris (Agencies): The French government is actively considering deploying a small military force directly into Ukraine to serve as instructors for Kiev’s Armed Forces and as a strategic deterrent to Moscow, according to a report by Le Monde. While the exact number of French military personnel authorized to cross into Ukrainian territory remains undisclosed, it is believed that their ranks may include conventional units.
France’s Special Forces have been engaged in training Ukrainian soldiers in neighboring Poland and have also been involved in escorting arms deliveries to Kiev. However, they have consistently halted their operations at the Ukrainian border. The proposed training for Ukrainian forces on the ground would focus on handling air defense systems, a critical need given the frequent targeting of Kiev’s surface-to-air weapons installations by Russian forces.
The French government views this troop deployment as a way to create a strategic dilemma for Moscow, potentially constraining Russia’s targeting and strike capabilities. It is particularly significant in light of the upcoming arrival of US-made F-16 fighter jets later this year.
Despite these developments, France has officially denied the presence of its troops in Ukraine during the conflict. French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent statement that a potential NATO troop deployment to Ukraine could not be ruled out further fueled controversy and discussions about international involvement in the ongoing crisis.
As the situation continues to evolve, the world watches closely to see how France’s military assistance will impact the conflict dynamics in Ukraine and the broader geopolitical landscape.