on the eastern front, the situation is “difficult”, recognizes the commander of the Ukrainian ground troops

2023-12-10 19:26:38

Emmanuel Macron reaffirms his support for the opening of accession negotiations between the EU and Ukraine

The French president reiterated Sunday to his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, the “support from France” to the opening of negotiations for accession to the European Union, which Hungary opposes. During a telephone call, Emmanuel Macron welcomed the adoption by the Ukrainian Parliament, on December 8 and 9, “several decisive pieces of legislation, relating in particular to the rights of national minorities, justice reform and the fight against corruption”reports the Elysée. “Ukraine is thus demonstrating its determination to respond immediately to the recommendations made to it by the European Commission”adds the French presidency.

EU heads of state and government are due to decide on Thursday and Friday on the opening of accession negotiations with Ukraine, but Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban remains inflexible. “Ukraine is known to be one of the most corrupt countries in the world. It’s a joke ! We cannot take the decision to begin an accession negotiation process”he said after meeting Mr. Macron last Thursday in Paris.

The French president also “reiterated France’s unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of the war of aggression led by Russia”, says the Elysée. For his part, Mr. Zelensky makes it known on that he informed his French counterpart of military developments on the front line. “We discussed our priority needs and the next French military aid package, which will significantly strengthen Ukraine’s firepower”he adds.