France is working on new European Union sanctions against Russia in response to ongoing attacks on Ukrainian civilians and energy infrastructure, French President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday following a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Macron condemned Russian attacks on civilians and energy infrastructure, including a recent strike on a passenger train in Kharkiv Oblast. “The attack yesterday against a passenger train in the Kharkiv region is unacceptable,” he said. “France strongly condemns strikes against civilians and energy infrastructure.”
New sanctions and shadow fleet crackdown
He said France is coordinating with EU partners to develop additional sanctions aimed at increasing pressure on Russia for as long as it avoids peace. “We are working on new sanctions at the European level and will continue efforts to disrupt the so-called shadow fleet,” Macron said.
Macron’s reference to the ‘shadow fleet’ highlights a persistent problem: Russian ships continue to evade sanctions while transporting export goods, such as oil, abroad, circumventing EU restrictions. Previous sanctions have struggled to fully disrupt these operations, allowing Moscow to maintain revenue and logistical channels that support its war effort in Ukraine.
Humanitarian support for winter
Macron also highlighted humanitarian support, noting that generators will be sent to Ukraine as part of G7+ initiatives to help civilians through the winter. He reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense and its participation in the Coalition of the Willing.
The statement comes as Ukraine’s energy system remains under severe strain. Russian attacks on power plants, substations, and heating facilities have forced rolling blackouts and emergency measures across multiple regions this winter. International partners, including France, have stepped in with generators and other equipment, but civilians continue to face severe heating and electricity challenges.
“Europe must be involved in peace talks”
On broader diplomatic efforts, Macron said European countries should be fully involved in negotiations following discussions in Abu Dhabi last week. “Ukraine can count on France to help build the conditions for a just and lasting peace that guarantees the security of Ukraine and Europe,” he added.
