The President of France, Emmanuel Macron, on Thursday, called Russia’s attack on Ukraine a watershed moment in Europe’s history. Macron, who has been involved in heavy diplomatic lifting between the West and Russia, has warned Moscow of an uncompromising response to its attack on its neighbour.
In his address to the nation, French President Emmanuel Macron declared, “We will respond to this act of aggression without weakness, with calm, determination, and togetherness.”
Moreover, Macron stated, “We tried everything to prevent this war, but it is here, and we are ready.” In addition, he said that sanctions would be “proportionate” to Russia’s military operations, targeting its economy and energy sector.
Macron said, “We will show no weakness” and “We will take all necessary steps to defend the sovereignty and stability of our European partners.”
To try to defuse the tensions with Ukraine, Macron spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday. The telephonic discussion lasting 105 minutes between the two leaders revolved around working out a consensus to reach a diplomatic solution to end the conflict.
However, Russia refused to soften its stand despite Macron’s efforts and announced it recognised separatist-backed Donetsk and Luhansk in eastern Ukraine.
Putin then secured approval from his administration to send armies to the former Soviet state.
The Russian military launched a major offensive in Ukraine on Thursday, using missiles to target military command centres in Kyiv and Kharkiv.
According to the sources, Russian forces have reportedly crossed the border into Ukraine. However, Ukraine is determined not to give up without a fight.
In Luhansk, Ukraine shot down at least five Russian jets and a helicopter. Russia, in turn, said it had taken out military infrastructure, including parts of Ukraine’s air bases, and “suppressed” its air defences.
Russia is facing massive international criticism over its invasion of Ukraine.
US president Joe Biden has warned of catastrophic consequences and slammed Putin over what he called a ‘premeditated war’.
Joe Biden, president of the US, also took to Twitter by saying,” Russia alone is responsible for the death and destruction this attack will bring, and the United States and its Allies and partners will respond in a united and decisive way. The world will hold Russia accountable.”
The European Union, the US and the UK, and several other countries, have announced strict sanctions.
