In response to Russia’s strike on Kyiv, France and Germany have agreed to supply Ukraine with additional air defense systems and are advocating for secondary sanctions against Russia.

French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced they will bolster Ukraine’s air defenses and enhance cooperation in security matters following the recent large-scale Russian airstrikes, including the latest on Kyiv on August 28 that took lives of 25 people. Both leaders also committed to initiating a “strategic dialogue” on nuclear deterrence and aligning their security policies.

Furthermore, Merz and Macron called for secondary sanctions to weaken Russia’s military capacity, aiming to pressure Moscow into negotiations. Merz warned that Russia’s war could continue for many months, emphasizing the need for Ukraine’s ongoing support.

Meanwhile, EU High Representative Kaja Kallas mentioned that the 19th package of Russian sanctions includes several potential economic restrictions, particularly sanctions targeting energy that would significantly impact Russia, along with secondary sanctions similar to those imposed by the US, and measures to limit Russian access to financial services and capital.