France to deliver 78 Caesar self-propelled artillery units and shells to Ukraine

France has pledged to provide Ukraine with 78 Caesar self-propelled howitzers in the near future, along with an increased supply of ammunition. French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu has confirmed that Paris will soon be able to deliver 78 Caesar self-propelled artillery systems to Ukraine, in addition to boosting ammunition shipments, according to Associated Press. Speaking at a press conference, Lecornu announced that France, Ukraine, and Denmark have reached an agreement on funding the self-propelled 155mm Caesar howitzers, enabling Paris to deliver them swiftly. He also revealed France's intention to supply Ukraine with 80,000 shells for 155mm guns this year, a significant increase from the 30,000 provided since the start of Russia's large-scale invasion. Moreover, the defense minister highlighted France's participation in efforts to locate available stocks of gunpowder and ammunition that could be purchased from non-European Union countries under the Czech Republic's initiative. Lecornu emphasized the necessity for European countries to reduce their reliance on the United States for continental security, stating,

"It is imperative. In my opinion..., it is not right for American taxpayers to foot such a large bill for the security of Europeans."

Previously, it was announced that the Franco-German armaments group KNDS would establish a new subsidiary with production facilities in Ukraine. Throughout the ongoing war, Ukraine has received 30 Caesar self-propelled guns and 38 AMX10RC armored vehicles. Paris recently unveiled plans to manufacture an additional 78 Caesar self-propelled howitzers for Ukraine. Lecornu also mentioned plans to engage the French company Delair, specializing in drones, in collaboration with the Ukrainian defense industry. The news come after a series of statements by French President Macron stressing the need for the EU to help Ukraine and be prepared for the possible war in the EU.

Macron: peace in Europe requires preparation for war