French see Ukraine as Russian extension

Riabchyi made the statement this in an interview with Suspilne.

"In France, there is a sentiment for Russian culture that goes back several centuries and relies on several pillars, primarily a similar imperial heritage and a powerful Russian emigration. Thanks to the efforts of you know who, this perspective is constantly being strengthened. Russia is investing a lot of resources in this: financial, human, and media. This is our main challenge. After all, in France, Ukraine is traditionally interpreted as an extension of Russia, a multicultural territory and a state with manifestations of nationalism. We have to overcome these stereotypes," he said.

According to him, the Russian aggression in Ukraine has shaken the level of trust in Russian narratives, which has opened a window of opportunity for Ukraine. Nowadays, "French institutions are very interested in cooperation," Riabchyi said.

• Ukraine's Former Foreign Minister Klimkin says that Ukraine should be more active in promoting its own culture, literature, and history abroad.