Europe 1 with AFP 5:29 p.m., October 02, 2022
Emmanuel Macron returned to the Russian annexations of four Ukrainian regions, which he strongly condemns.
The French president has pledged to work with his European partners on new sanctions against Moscow.
President Emmanuel Macron pledged on Sunday to "work with his European partners on new sanctions" against Russia after the annexation of four Ukrainian regions, the Elysee Palace reported.
During a telephone interview with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky, the head of state "reiterated his strong condemnation of the illegal annexation by Russia" of the four regions, according to a press release.
"He reaffirmed France's determination to help Ukraine regain its full sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to work with its European partners on new sanctions," continues the Elysee.
International condemnations
The EU reacted on Wednesday to the annexation of four regions occupied totally or partially by Moscow by proposing in particular to cap the price of Russian oil and to add new restrictions to trade with Moscow.
Ukraine also condemned on Saturday the "illegal detention" of the general manager of the Zaporijjia nuclear power plant (south), Igor Murachov, arrested on Friday by Russia, which controls the site for a reason still unknown.
Emmanuel Macron condemned the arrest and, along with Volodymyr Zelensky, "underlined the very short-term urgency of allowing the rotation of Ukrainian personnel who ensure the operation and safety of the installations".