Ukraine and France discuss Black Sea security and air defense

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha held discussions with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot regarding the escalating security situation in the Black Sea. Sybiha warned that Russia is intensifying attacks on ports and maritime routes during the harvest season, posing a direct threat to the Ukrainian economy, freedom of navigation, and global food security.

The talks focused on practical measures to keep maritime routes open and safe. Sybiha also emphasized Ukraine’s urgent need for enhanced air defense capabilities to counter increasing threats from Russian ballistic missiles and to protect energy infrastructure ahead of the winter months.

Furthermore, the discussions covered the necessity for more systematic sanctions against Russia. Sybiha called for targeted restrictions against entities and individuals involved in the production of Russian missiles and drones, as well as continued support for Ukraine’s European Union membership and peace initiatives.