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France has firmly rejected Russia's assertion that French mercenaries were present in Ukraine, following Russia's Ministry of Defence's statement that its forces had killed "foreign fighters" earlier this week.
In a statement issued on Thursday, France's Ministry for Foreign Affairs refuted the claim, asserting that France is providing support to Ukraine through the supply of military materials and training. The assistance, it emphasized, is being carried out in strict adherence to international law and is aimed at aiding Ukraine in its defense of sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
The French ministry categorically stated, "France has no mercenaries, neither in Ukraine nor elsewhere, unlike certain others," in a clear attempt to dispel any suggestion of French involvement in mercenary activities.
In response to the escalating situation, Russia summoned the French ambassador to Moscow, Pierre Levy, to its foreign ministry. The summons was related to the alleged presence of French mercenaries in Ukraine, with Russian state news agency TASS reporting the development.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova cited the destruction by Russian armed forces of a temporary deployment point in Kharkiv, claiming that among the foreign fighters killed were several dozen French nationals. The summoning of the French ambassador reflects the heightened tensions and diplomatic challenges as both nations navigate the complexities surrounding the conflict in Ukraine.
As international scrutiny intensifies, France's strong denial underscores the importance of diplomatic clarity amid the ongoing geopolitical developments in the region.
