French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has declared that there are no “red lines” in supporting Ukraine against Russia, signaling a robust and potentially escalating Western stance in the ongoing conflict.
In an exclusive interview with the BBC, Barrot stated that Ukraine could fire French long-range missiles into Russia as part of self-defense, though he did not confirm if French weapons had already been used. This statement comes shortly after the US and UK used long-range missiles against Russian targets for the first time.
Barrot emphasized that Western allies should not limit their support for Ukraine, asserting that “We will support Ukraine as intensely and as long as necessary.” He highlighted the strategic importance of supporting Ukraine, arguing that each kilometer of Russian army progression brings the threat closer to Europe.
The French minister suggested several potential approaches to the conflict:
1. Potential NATO Membership: Barrot hinted at being open to inviting Ukraine to join NATO, aligning with President Zelensky’s request.
2. Increased Defense Spending: He acknowledged that Western countries would need to increase defense budgets to meet emerging challenges.
3. No Restrictions: When asked about potential military involvement, Barrot stated they “do not discard any option.”
The current geopolitical landscape is marked by significant escalation, including:
– UK and US long-range missile strikes into Russia
– Russia firing an intercontinental ballistic missile
– Vladimir Putin suggesting the possibility of global war
Western strategists are considering multiple approaches to support Ukraine:
Financial Support:
– Potentially tripling European financial aid
– Pursuing Russian assets
– Developing a long-term “war chest” for Ukraine
Military Support:
– Continuing drone and military equipment support
– The UK has already signed a treaty to help Ukraine arm itself long-term
Diplomatic Considerations:
– Preparing for potential negotiations
– Strategizing how to approach the potential return of Donald Trump to the White House
– Considering potential trade-offs in future negotiations
Intelligence reports reveal Ukraine’s strategic drone attacks, which successfully destroyed significant Russian and North Korean ammunition supplies in September.
Government sources acknowledge the persistent threat from Russia, noting its alliances with North Korea and Iran. Some suggest this might represent a return to historical geopolitical tensions after a brief peaceful period in the 1990s.
The overarching message from Western officials is to remain resolute but not panic in response to Putin’s increasingly aggressive rhetoric. The goal is to position Ukraine as strongly as possible for potential future negotiations while maintaining unified international support.
As one source succinctly put it: “Get used to it, it’s how we’ve lived forever” – suggesting a long-term, complex geopolitical challenge ahead.
