France responds to reports it won't buy US weapons for Ukraine
Photo: Sophie Primas, spokesperson for the French government (Getty Images)
France will continue to support Ukraine, but will give maximum preference to purchasing European-made weapons, stated French government spokesperson Sophie Primas during a briefing.
According to Primas, France will support Ukraine both now, as it urgently needs weapons, and in the future, aiming to help create conditions for a ceasefire.
"I don’t know the exact mechanics of this process (the initiative to purchase American weapons for Ukraine - ed.), but clearly, we are operating within the framework of military support, one way or another, with a strong preference for European arms procurement. That is the clear position France stands by," she explained.
Support for Ukraine
Germany has proposed an initiative under which European countries would purchase American weapons for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. However, according to media reports, France has decided not to join the effort, as it plans to increase its defense spending while trying to cut its budget and curb its deficit. French President Emmanuel Macron has long advocated for EU member states to develop domestic defense industries and prioritize purchasing European-made weapons.
In addition, Hungary has also refused to take part in the joint funding of US weapons for Ukraine.
