Paris allows Ukraine to strike Russia with French missiles

24 November, 2024 Illustration of the SCALP EG missile. Author: Akela Freedom The French Foreign Ministry confirmed Ukraine's ability to launch French missiles at Russian territory.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told the BBC that there are no "red lines" in support of Ukraine. Jean-Noel Barrot stated that Ukraine could fire French missiles at Russia, but did not confirm whether Ukraine had already used French weapons for this purpose. "The principles have been established... our message to President Zelensky was well received," Jean-Noel Barrot pointed out.

Earlier this year, French President Macron noted that France was ready to allow its missiles to be fired at Russia.

Jean-Noel Barrot. Photo: BBC

However, Barro's comments have a special significance, as they came a few days after Ukraine fired long-range U.S. and British missiles at Russian territory for the first time. Barrot, who held talks with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy in London on Friday, stated that Western allies should not place any restrictions on support for Ukraine or adhere to any "red lines."

Asked if this could mean French troops taking part in the war in Ukraine, he replied: "We are not ruling out any option." Barrot also hinted at inviting Ukraine to join NATO. "We are open to extending an invitation, and so in our discussions with Ukraine's friends and allies, we are working to bring them closer to our position," Barrot said.

SCALP EG missile under the wing of the Ukrainian Su-24M bomber.

August 2023.

Frame from the Ihor Smilyanskyi`s video

Barron's words come after a week of significant escalation in Ukraine, with Ukrainian forces firing long-range British and American missiles at Russia and Moscow launching an intercontinental ballistic missile at Ukraine.

One UK government source describes this moment as a "watershed" ahead of winter and Donald Trump's return to the White House.