**Russia Accuses France of Threat**
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov claimed that French President Emmanuel Macron’s comments on nuclear deterrence pose a threat to Russia. This happened after Macron said he was open to extending France’s nuclear umbrella to protect European allies.
Macron made his comments during a televised address, where he mentioned growing uncertainties caused by the U.S.’s foreign policy shifts. He also stated that no decision has been taken yet on extending France’s nuclear umbrella.
However, Lavrov claimed that Macron is “preparing to use nuclear weapons against Russia.” This claim was made without providing evidence and contradicts Macron’s actual statement.
**Russia Denies Threat**
The Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov echoed Lavrov’s remarks, calling Macron’s comments “very confrontational” and accusing France of escalating tensions. He also stated that France is already ready to use its nuclear weapons for security purposes.
**Macron’s Proposal Welcomed by European Leaders**
Despite the Russian claims, Polish and Lithuanian leaders welcomed Macron’s proposal to extend France’s nuclear umbrella. This move comes as European leaders push for increased defense spending and military aid to Ukraine amid concerns that U.S. President Donald Trump may not defend Europe if Russia attacks.
**Ukraine Conflict Escalates**
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to escalate. Ukrainian forces reportedly attacked the command post of the 17th Tank Regiment, while Russian forces launched missiles at various regions of Ukraine overnight on March 7.
Ukrainian Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko stated that energy and gas infrastructure across the country were targeted by Russian missiles. There were reports of 1,150 casualties among Russian forces over the past day.
**US Increases Support for Ukraine**
The U.S. has increased support for Ukraine, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth praising the UK for taking a lead among European allies to support Ukraine. The Norwegian government also agreed to increase aid for Ukraine by $4.6 billion.
**Ukraine and US Work Towards Peace**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine and U.S. delegations have resumed work towards a peace agreement. He stated that Ukraine is ready to take necessary steps for peace and has proposed what those steps are.
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