France’s efforts in supporting Ukraine militarily is being hindered by domestic economic pressures. This includes a possible 6 percent GDP deficit.
According to Sebastien Lecornu, the Armed Forces minister, France is unlikely to meet its target of EUR3 bn ($3,2 bn), in military aid for Ukraine this year.
“Politically, this aid could reach EUR3 bn ($3,2 bn) was decided at the start of 2024.” Politico reports that Lecornu told lawmakers that we would be over EUR2 billion ($2,1 billion) but not reach EUR3 billion.
This revelation comes after French president Emmanuel Macron pledged up to EUR3 bn ($3,2 bn), in military support for Ukraine earlier this year. The promise was made as part of a bilateral agreement between Paris and Kyiv signed in February to secure long term aid for Ukraine.
The shortfall in aid comes as France is under pressure to reduce its deficit which could reach 6 percent GDP by 2024.
Politico reports that Germany, Europe’s largest donor of military assistance to Ukraine, plans on halving its support next year in order to reduce spending.
Last week, French president Macron met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Paris to discuss “victory plans” and additional aid.
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