French presidential candidates clash over Ukraine aid

French presidential candidates have expressed opposing views regarding financial support for Ukraine during the Politico ‘Playbook Paris Live’ summit.

Marine Le Pen, the far-right National Rally candidate, stated that France can no longer afford to provide financial assistance to Ukraine due to the country's budget situation. While she opposes direct financial aid, she suggested that France could still provide military aid and training for Ukrainian soldiers and military leadership. Le Pen also dismissed assertions that France is currently at war with Russia.

In contrast, center-right Renaissance Party candidate Gabriel Attal argued that continued financial support for Ukraine is a necessary investment in France's own security and the daily lives of its citizens. Attal noted that the support is not merely a humanitarian operation. Regarding the possibility of sending French aircraft to protect Ukrainian airspace, Attal stated that such an option should not be ruled out, provided there is a request from Ukraine and cooperation with other nations.