Russian invasion The World response

Macron: Ready to defend freedom at the cost of blood

Europe is ready to defend freedom and the rule of law "even at the cost of blood". The French president said this in a speech to the country's armed forces on Monday, Le Figaro reports.

- The message we are sending to the world is this: Yes, peace is our goal. Yes, we value freedom and the rule of law. And yes, we are ready to defend them. Always, and even at the cost of blood if necessary, Macron said.

He also called for increased European defense cooperation, writes AFP.

On Monday, at least 25 heads of state and government from the "coalition of the willing" will gather in Paris to show support for Ukraine and put pressure on Russia.

Ukraine forms anti-ballistic coalition with nine countries

Ukraine and nine other European countries, including Sweden, are forming a coalition to develop anti-ballistic defense capabilities in Europe. This is reported by AFP.

In a joint statement, the countries announced that the decision was made due to a “growing threat” from ballistic missiles.

The countries included are Ukraine, Sweden, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain and the United Kingdom.