France is likely to demand security guarantees from Russia for its contingent in Ukraine - Feygin

He expressed this opinion on the Espreso TV channel.

"As for the conversation between Shoigu and the French Defence Minister, probably, I mean, I don't know for sure, the part that is hidden from us, the non-public part, the conversation was about the French contingent that should be sent to Ukraine and its safety there - as I imagine it. They are probably trying to get a response from Russia, whether it is ready to provide security. For example, if they are stationed in Odesa, a military base, will it be shelled by missiles? Apparently, there was a conversation about this. And it was publicly reported that they discussed the consequences of the terrorist attack, the Ukrainian footprint, and other security issues. But it seems to me that this is the main issue now," Feygin explained.

According to the politician, Macron will continue his rhetoric on the deployment of French troops in Ukraine.

"Macron is playing his game, it is very important for him to bring it to the end, because why did he say this on February 26 and talk about it many, many times, repeat it, call for it, negotiate, hold public discussions, respond to Moscow's claims. This has to end in something, and in politics in general, anyone who says something and does not implement it, at least partially, at least ritually, is a big loser. In fact, I suspect the game is on," he added.

• On April 3, French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu spoke by phone with Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu for the first time since October 2022.