Ukraine – France appalled by new Russian air strikes, particularly against a humanitarian aid distribution point in Ukraine (July 10 and 11, 2023)

France is appalled by the Russian missile strike that targeted a humanitarian aid distribution point in the city of Orikhiv on July 10, leaving at least four dead. We condemn just as strongly last night’s attacks that targeted Kyiv and Odesa.

These strikes, which confirm Russia’s contempt for protecting civilians and international humanitarian law, deliberately targeted protected sites and personnel in violation of international humanitarian law, particularly as it relates to the protection of humanitarian relief personnel.

As Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Catherine Colonna has repeatedly emphasized, these acts are war crimes and cannot go unpunished.

In close coordination with its allies, France pledges to step up its military support for Ukraine, particularly Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, and its support for Ukrainian and international courts in order to combat impunity for such crimes.