Le Pen: France can no longer maintain previous level of financial aid to Ukraine

Marine Le Pen, the de facto leader of France’s National Rally, has said France can no longer provide financial aid to Ukraine at the same level as before, citing the country’s deteriorating financial situation, French newspaper Le Figaro writes.

She stressed that her position “is not an act of hostility toward Ukraine.” According to Le Pen, France could continue supporting Ukraine by training Ukrainian military personnel and supplying equipment needed for its defence.

However, she argued that continued financial assistance is no longer possible given France’s financial situation.

Le Pen also called for an international peace conference aimed at finding a diplomatic resolution to the war between Russia and Ukraine.

A change in government is expected in France next year. The presidential election will take place on April 18, with the second round on May 2. The French are increasingly supporting the far right; a potential victory for Le Pen could influence military aid, sanctions, and Ukraine's integration into the European Union.