On May 25 (local time), according to AFP, French President Emmanuel Macron condemned Russia's new attacks on Ukraine, and criticized Moscow's use of Oreshnik ballistic missiles in a large-scale attack that took place earlier.
On social network X, Mr. Macron said that Russia continues to attack civilian targets in Ukraine despite international efforts to reduce tensions.
“Russian attacks on civilian targets in Ukraine continue. France condemns this attack as well as the use of Oreshnik ballistic missiles,” the French leader wrote.
According to Mr. Macron, the latest developments show that the conflict between Russia and Ukraine has not shown signs of cooling down, and also reflect difficulties in efforts to find a diplomatic solution.
The French President's statement came after Ukraine announced that Russia had launched one of the most intense attacks in recent times. Kiev officials said hundreds of drones and many types of missiles were used in the operation targeting the capital and many other areas on its territory.
According to the Ukrainian side, the attacks have damaged civil infrastructure, residential areas and some public works. Local authorities have also recorded casualties in many affected areas.
One of the notable points of the attack is that Russia is said to have used the Oreshnik missile. This is a supersonic ballistic missile that Moscow once introduced as part of a new generation of strategic weapons. Oreshnik is said to be capable of carrying many different types of warheads, including nuclear warheads.
The appearance of this type of missile on the battlefield has attracted the attention of Western countries. Observers believe that this move may increase concerns about the risk of military escalation in the context of a conflict that has lasted for more than 4 years.
Meanwhile, Russia said the Oreshnik missile attack targeted military targets and defense industrial facilities of Ukraine. Moscow affirmed that this is a response to what it considers escalating actions from Kiev and Western countries.
France and many European allies continue to call for de-escalation and promote diplomatic efforts to find a solution to the conflict, as fighting continues on many fronts.
