In a joint statement, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot underscored their unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine as it continues its resistance against Russia’s ongoing invasion. Speaking at a high-level diplomatic meeting, both leaders confirmed that the Biden administration, alongside European allies, would persist in its financial and military support for Ukraine for as long as necessary.
Secretary Blinken highlighted that over the past two years of Russia’s aggression, the U.S. had committed over $100 million in aid to Ukraine, while its international partners contributed an additional $150 million. This support, Blinken emphasized, is crucial not only for Ukraine’s survival but also for the future of international law and European security.
“This is a matter of security for the French people as well as for all Europeans,” said Barrot, echoing the sentiment that the war in Ukraine is not just a regional conflict but a fight that directly threatens the values of democracy and sovereignty that underpin the European Union. He further warned of the imperial ambitions of Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling his territorial expansionist goals a direct challenge to international order.
With the ongoing war showing no signs of abating, Blinken added that Ukraine’s ability to negotiate from a position of strength would be key in any future peace process. However, he stressed that any ceasefire or negotiation should include strong deterrents against Russia’s potential for future aggression, which he deemed likely given Putin’s historical inclinations.
“If there’s going to be a negotiation, if there’s going to be a ceasefire, it’s essential to ensure that there’s effective deterrence against further Russian aggression,” Blinken explained. “Putin has not and will not give up on his imperial ambitions, and any deal must take that into account to avoid a repeat of the past.”
Barrot also echoed this sentiment, stating that the war in Ukraine is fundamentally a battle to defend international law and the principles that underpin the security of all nations. He noted that if Ukraine were to capitulate, it would set a dangerous precedent that could embolden other authoritarian regimes with expansionist goals.
Addressing the Crisis in Georgia
The conversation turned to the political situation in Georgia, where recent unrest and the government’s actions have raised concerns among Western allies. President Macron’s recent backing of the opposition protesters in Tbilisi, combined with ongoing European sanctions against Georgian officials, was also a point of discussion.
Both Blinken and Barrot condemned the democratic backsliding in Georgia, with Blinken stressing that the actions of the Georgian government were “deeply concerning” and contrary to the democratic aspirations of the Georgian people. The U.S. and France, along with other European allies, have imposed sanctions on Georgian officials and suspended assistance to the government in protest.
“There is a clear unity of purpose among the U.S., France, and other European partners in response to the actions of the Georgian government,” Blinken stated. “We are committed to standing with the Georgian people, who have long sought closer ties to Europe, and we will continue to pressure the government to respect their democratic rights.”
On the Kurdish Question and Syrian Stability
Turning to Syria, both leaders expressed concern about the potential for destabilization as Turkish forces threatened military operations against Kurdish fighters in northern Syria. The Kurdish forces, primarily aligned with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), have been a vital partner to both the U.S. and France in the fight against ISIS and other terrorist organizations in the region.
Barrot emphasized that while Türkiye’s security concerns, particularly regarding the PKK (Kurdistan Workers’ Party), are legitimate, it is essential for Western allies to ensure that Kurdish forces are not marginalized as part of any future political settlement in Syria. He acknowledged that the Kurds have been critical allies in the fight against ISIS, noting their efforts in securing over 10,000 foreign terrorist fighters in detention.
“We owe it to the Kurds,” Barrot stated. “They have been our partners in fighting Daesh, and they must be part of the future of Syria. We cannot afford to ignore their role in securing the country’s future.”
Secretary Blinken echoed these comments, stressing that maintaining stability in Syria and preventing a resurgence of ISIS are central U.S. and French interests. He noted that while Türkiye has legitimate security concerns, any military action against Kurdish forces could destabilize the region, jeopardizing the hard-won progress against terrorism.
“As Jean-Noël said, an enduring terrorist threat, especially from ISIS, remains in the region,” Blinken said. “Our priority is to ensure that the Kurdish forces continue to play a crucial role in preventing any resurgence of terrorist activity. It is also critical to protect the security of the Syrian people, including all ethnic groups.”
Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Syrian Democratic Forces and facilitating dialogue between Kurdish groups and the Turkish government, ensuring that Türkiye’s security concerns are addressed while also safeguarding the Kurdish contribution to Syria’s future.
The Road Ahead
Looking ahead, both the U.S. and France signaled that the next phase of their foreign policy priorities would continue to be shaped by the outcomes in Ukraine, Georgia, and Syria. Both leaders agreed that addressing these challenges is essential not only for the immediate security of the European continent but for the stability of the broader international order.
As tensions continue to rise, Blinken and Barrot stressed the importance of maintaining a united front against Russian aggression, supporting democratic movements in countries like Georgia, and ensuring that the fight against terrorism remains at the forefront of international priorities.