Ukraine war

France to send light battle tanks to Ukraine

French President Emmanuel Macron speaks alongside Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) during a photo op prior to their meeting at the Capitol on Thursday, December 1, 2022. (Photo: Greg Nash/AP)

France will supply light battle tanks to Ukraine, making it the first country to arm Kyiv with tanks of Western design in the conflict with Russia.

During a Wednesday phone chat with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, French President Emmanuel Macron promised to provide Ukraine with light tanks and additional Bastion-brand armored transport vehicles.

The Ukrainian president tweeted the news.

Zelensky wrote, "Had a long and detailed conversation with President of France @EmmanuelMacron on the current situation," "Thanked for the decision to transfer light tanks and Bastion APCs to Ukraine, as well as for intensifying work with partners in the same direction."

In response to Russia's continuous missile attacks against Ukrainian infrastructure and energy systems, Zelensky stated that he and Macron decided to bolster air defenses and other defensive capabilities.

Wednesday, Élysée Palace officials confirmed that France will supply tanks to Ukraine, as reported by France24.

The AMX-10 RC is a highly mobile reconnaissance aircraft that can provide fire support in combat.

The battle tanks are outfitted with a 105 mm firing cannon and a machine gun.

The AMX-10 RC will be the first Western-designed battle tank sent to Kyiv since the invasion over a year ago. However, the Czech Republic has modified Soviet-era T-72 tanks for use in Ukraine, which the United States has helped finance.

The Biden administration is also considering whether or not to send Bradley Fighting Vehicles, which are lighter and more maneuverable than tanks.

The Associated Press reported Wednesday that President Biden was considering offering the Bradley vehicles to Ukraine.

As the conflict in the country's eastern area continues for months, Ukraine has been lobbying for additional military equipment and tanks.

After Zelensky visited Washington last month, the Patriot missile defense system was given to Ukraine by the Biden administration.

Publish : 2023-01-05 09:11:00

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