ARTICLES

Possible Russian Offensive: France Warns, US and Britain Promise

23 November 2021, 14:00

The US is considering sending additional weapons to Ukraine.

France has warned Russia of serious consequences in the event of an invasion of Ukraine, while the US and Britain promised Reznikov to "act pre-emptively." Here is the latest news on a possible Russian offensive.

France's Statement

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said the country is concerned about the concentration of Russian forces near the border with Ukraine. He recalled similar "maneuvers" in the spring of 2021.

According to him, "any violation of the Ukrainian border and any invasion" would bring "extremely serious consequences." The French foreign minister noted that in recent months the "slide toward authoritarianism" of Putin's regime has "accelerated," pointing to intensified repression against the opposition.

Le Drian noted: "This authoritarian tilt is worrying." According to the minister, Putin "wants to secure his power, secure Russia's weight on the international stage" and "does not want to see a strong and united Europe as his neighbor."

At the same time, he said Russia remains Europe's neighbor — "sometimes an unbearable neighbor" — with which one must somehow "keep talking." Le Drian said that a "two plus two" format meeting between the foreign and defense ministers of France and Russia had been organized for this purpose.

"I cannot say it went very well, but it took place. Channels of dialogue must be maintained," the minister added.

US and British Promise

Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov said international partners promised him they would act pre-emptively in the event of escalation at the border or a Russian offensive against Ukraine.

Oleksii Reznikov
Ukrainian Defense Minister
We had long and frank conversations (with colleagues from the US and Britain — ed.). And we talked about how there is no longer time to merely express concern and anxiety. I was assured of unconditional support for Ukraine. I was assured that very serious consultations are underway between other partner countries of the Alliance and the EU on readiness to take very decisive steps, and pre-emptively, I emphasize. This applies to political steps, economic steps, and assistance to Ukraine as well.

He said that during numerous meetings in the US he heard partners sending very serious signals that direct interference in Ukraine's territory and aggression by Russia would cost it dearly in every sense of the word.

US Weapons

Sources told CNN that the administration of US President Joe Biden is considering sending additional weapons to Ukraine amid concerns about a possible Russian invasion.

The discussion involves military advisers and new equipment — the package could include new Javelin anti-tank missiles and mortars. Air defense systems, in particular Stinger missiles, are also under consideration.

The outlet notes that the Pentagon is pushing to send some equipment to Ukraine that was originally meant for Afghanistan, such as Mi-17 helicopters.

The Mi-17 is a Russian helicopter that the US originally bought to transfer to Afghans. Now the Pentagon is weighing what to do with them after the US withdrawal from Afghanistan in August. The Biden administration is concerned that sending Stingers and helicopters could be seen by Russia as a serious escalation of the conflict.

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Cedric Leighton told CNN that Javelins are "very effective against T-80 tanks, which the Russians are actually using in their efforts against Ukraine right now." He noted that any additional assistance to Ukraine would undoubtedly carry the risk of "further heightening tensions" in relations with Russia.

Sources said US officials are negotiating with European allies on developing a new package of sanctions that would take effect if Russia invades Ukrainian territory.