French presidential hopefuls urge stronger EU sanctions and aid for Ukraine
Two French candidates, Édouard Philippe and Gabriel Attal, called for tougher sanctions on Russia and increased support for Ukraine after a recent drone strike on a civilian train near the EU border.
Former prime minister Édouard Philippe, heading the Horizons party, linked a recent drone strike on a civilian train to the Kremlin's dangerous strategy and demanded that Europe bolster sanctions, ensure their enforcement, and channel frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine's defence. He also highlighted the importance of safeguarding Ukrainian airspace without directly entering the conflict. Gabriel Attal, also a former prime minister and leader of the Renaissance group, pointed out that the strike hit infrastructure only two kilometres from the Polish border, underscoring the threat to EU territory.
He called for new measures to protect the skies over Ukraine, arguing that Europe's security is intertwined with Ukrainian safety. Attal reiterated his proposal to confiscate frozen Russian assets to hold Russia financially accountable. The statements came as a diplomatic train carrying EU security advisers and former leaders, including Boris Johnson, was present at the Yahodyn station shortly before the attack.
Why it matters
The calls signal growing French pressure for a unified EU response to Russian aggression and increased resources for Ukraine.
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