Ukraine Appeals for NATO Military Training, Macron Reveals
Macron's Announcement during D-Day Memorial Events
On Thursday, during the D-Day memorial events in France, French President Emmanuel Macron made significant revelations regarding Ukraine. This followed President Biden's speech, which was primarily focused on 'defeating Russia' rather than commemorating WWII and the lives lost on the Normandy beaches.
Ukraine's Request for French Troops
For the first time, Macron revealed that the Zelensky government has specifically requested the deployment of French troops to Ukraine. The purpose is to train their forces, given the increasing manpower shortage and a severe delay in adequate training. "The Ukrainian president and his defence minister have appealed to all the allies through an official letter 48 hours ago. They need us to train them faster and on their soil," Macron stated during a live interview on French television.
Macron's Response to Ukraine's Request
Although Macron did not commit to sending troops (since NATO allies have not yet reached a consensus), he did indicate that the French military would equip and train an entire brigade of 4,500 Ukrainian soldiers. However, this training will take place outside Ukraine.
Transfer of Mirage-2000 Fighter Jets to Ukraine
Macron also expressed willingness to transfer Mirage-2000 fighter jets to Ukraine and train their pilots on the aircraft. However, he did not specify the number of jets to be sent. "We will initiate a new cooperation and announce the transfer of Mirage 2000-5 tomorrow," Macron hinted during the interview, referring to the fighter jet manufactured by Dassault.
Training of Ukrainian Pilots
The pilot training program is set to begin this summer, with the details to be finalized when Macron meets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Elysee Palace in Paris on Friday. "Normally, it takes between five to six months. Therefore, by the end of the year, there will be pilots. The pilots will be trained in France," he added.
Macron's Caution on Deploying Western Troops in Ukraine
Regarding the deployment of Western troops directly in Ukraine, Macron advised caution. "We are collaborating with our partners and will act based on a collective decision," he stated. However, he acknowledged that this is a losing proposition at this stage of the conflict, a fact that the West is aware of, even if officials do not openly admit it. President Putin and top Kremlin officials have consistently warned that they will attack any foreign troops found on Ukrainian soil.
Andrew Cockburn's Analysis of the Situation
Journalist and national security commentator Andrew Cockburn summarized the situation as follows: "As Russian forces steadily advance in the Kharkiv region, it becomes increasingly evident that the Ukraine war has been disastrous for the U.S. defense machine. Not only has our aid failed to prevent Ukraine from retreating and possibly being defeated, but the war has also ruthlessly exposed the deep, underlying faults in our defense system."
Final Thoughts
This situation presents a complex and challenging scenario for the international community. It raises questions about the role of foreign intervention, the potential risks involved, and the long-term implications for global peace and security. What are your thoughts on this matter? Feel free to share this article with your friends to hear their opinions. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is available every day at 6pm.
