France has strongly criticized Russia's recent use of diplomatic channels to intimidate other nations, particularly following the summoning of the French ambassador by the Russian Foreign Ministry.
As per a statement from the French Foreign Ministry reported by European Pravda, Russia summoned the French ambassador to Moscow to protest against what it called France's "provocative" policies. This move was triggered by remarks made by French President Emmanuel Macron, who recently reopened discussions about the potential deployment of Western troops to Ukraine.
The French Foreign Ministry expressed concern, stating, "France notes with dismay the misuse of diplomatic channels to manipulate information and engage in intimidation." It further criticized the Russian Foreign Ministry for "reversing responsibilities" and attempting to blame Western countries for threatening Russia, despite Russia's ongoing aggression against Ukraine and its efforts to destabilize European countries through cyberattacks and other hybrid operations.
The French Foreign Ministry reiterated France's unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of Russian aggression. Additionally, during a visit to Kyiv on 3 May, UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron stated that Ukraine has the right to use weapons supplied by the UK to target locations within Russia, mirroring Russia's actions in Ukraine using weapons provided by Iran and North Korea.
Cameron's statement sparked an angry response from the Russian Foreign Ministry, which issued several threats against the UK.