Macron condemns Russian attacks on Ukraine, pledges tougher sanctions

French President Emmanuel Macron denounced the latest Russian missile and drone strikes that hit the Kiev region, killing at least 17 people and wounding 44. In a post on X, he said the attacks were "unacceptable" and that Russia must "pay the price" for its aggression.

Macron announced that the European Union and its partners will increase pressure on Moscow, including new sanctions and a boost to military assistance for Ukraine, reaffirming support alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Russian defence ministry claimed the strikes targeted logistical sites used for arms and drone production. The condemnation came a day after Zelensky reported new Ukrainian operations against Russian territory.