France, Ukraine to sign security deal soon, French Foreign Minister says
The Hindu
France and Ukraine are expected to sign a bilateral security agreement soon, including financial and military aid.
France and Ukraine are soon likely to sign a bilateral agreement on security commitments, French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne said on Wednesday.
French President Emmanuel Macron was expected to finalise a security deal in Ukraine this month, but he postponed the trip for security reasons.
"A bilateral accord is in discussion and will be signed probably soon between the President Emmanuel Macron and President Volodymyr Zelensky," Mr. Sejourne told a hearing in parliament.
As Kyiv seeks NATO membership and fights a two-year-old Russian invasion, diplomats have said Mr. Zelensky could conclude bilateral security assurances with France and Germany later this week after beginning talks in July.
The French accord would outline the framework for long-term humanitarian and financial aid, support for reconstruction and military assistance. According two diplomats aware of the talks, France would announce a 200-million-euro fund for civilian projects to be carried out by French companies.
However, it would stop short of providing specific financial commitments on weapons' deliveries as Paris would need to return to parliament for approval, diplomats said.
Also read: Ukraine says it destroyed Russian landing warship in Black Sea
Harvard professor Carlos Portugal Gouvea arrested for discharging a pellet gun near a synagogue; agrees to leave the U.S.
Macron cautioned Zelenskyy that the U.S. might pressure Ukraine into territorial concessions to Russia without security guarantees.
A Canadian national was arrested at the Indo-Nepal border for using a fake immigration stamp on his passport.
Appeals court permits Trump to maintain National Guard deployment in D.C., reversing a lower court's order to withdraw troops.
Iraq retracts its terror designation of Hezbollah and Houthis, citing an error amid regional political pressures and public backlash.
U.S. military strikes drug boats amid scrutiny over legality and rising casualties, prompting investigations and conflicting congressional testimonies.
Indian envoy Santosh Jha meets Sri Lanka’s Housing Minister to discuss reconstruction efforts following Cyclone Ditwah's devastating impact.
The U.S. and Kenya sign a $2.5 billion health deal, marking the start of "America First" global health agreements.
Explore the resilience and daily realities of Ukrainians enduring relentless warfare in a country forever changed by conflict.
Trump's envoys engage with Ukraine amid eased sanctions on Russia, seeking to advance peace negotiations following recent talks with Putin.
Explore China's rural revitalization efforts, showcasing poverty alleviation, local spirit, and sustainable development in its diverse landscapes.
UN Security Council delegates visit Syria for the first time since 1945, aiming to build trust and support national reconciliation.
U.S. reduces work permit validity for refugees and asylum seekers to 18 months, citing public safety concerns following recent violence.