France hands over first long-range missiles to Ukraine

He made this statement during a briefing in Vilnius at the NATO summit, according to Infos Françaises.

According to Macron,Ukraine will receive the SCALP long-range missiles, also known as Storm Shadow, which will enhance the capabilities of the Armed Forces during counteroffensive operations.

"France will deliver long-range SCALP missiles to Ukraine. We have decided to increase the supply of arms and equipment," stated the French President.

Macron emphasized the importance of expressing support for Ukraine, NATO unity, and the determination that Russia cannot win this war.

President Macron did not specify the details regarding the type and quantity of missiles.

Dmitry Peskov, Putin’s press secretary, called the Frence’s decision a mistake and one that is "threatening with consequences" for Kyiv. He added that the decision would force Russia to take responding measures.

Reuters writes, citing a French diplomatic source, that France will provide Ukraine with 50 SCALP missiles. A second source with knowledge of the move said that some missiles have already been delivered to Ukraine.

Additional information: SCALP is a Franco-British air-launched cruise missile, equivalent to the British Storm Shadow. It has a range of over 250 km, is highly accurate, and nearly invisible to radars. It can be adapted to Su-24M aircraft. The warhead weighs 450 kg and has a self-destruct feature. It was first used by Britain 19 years ago in Iraq.

• On May 23, it became known that France is ready to conclude an agreement with Ukraine aimed at providing long-term security guarantees to help Ukraine defend itself.
• On June 20, France changed its position and intends to support Ukraine's NATO membership after the end of the war with Russia.