French FM: Attacks on civilian targets in Ukraine - war crime

French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna has said Russia's use of Iranian-made drones against civilian targets in Ukraine is a "war crime."

According to Anadolu Agency, Colonna made the statement on October 21 during a joint press conference with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken.

Describing the Russian-Ukrainian war as Moscow's "direct attack" on the world order established after World War II, the French minister said Russia was trying to split the international order with its "imperialist and colonialist ambitions".

Colonna said France had pledged to support Ukraine for as long as necessary. France has significantly reduced its energy dependence on Russia and in a few months, it will adapt to the emerging energy situation in Europe.

The minister added that France would soon provide new equipment and armaments to Ukraine. Colonna shared that her country is currently training some 2,000 Ukrainian soldiers.

Asked about the unmanned systems Iran has provided to Russia, Colonna said, "We have imposed sanctions against those responsible for this weapons programme at the EU ministerial level. This is not only a violation of Iran's obligations under the United Nations (UN) Security Council Resolution, but it is also a war crime because it targets civilians."