France supports sanctions over Leipzig attack, targets Russian shadow fleet
Istanbul (ANTARA) - French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stated on Wednesday that France will support Germany’s proposal for sanctions following the hybrid attacks in Leipzig last month and is seeking additional measures against ships belonging to the Russian shadow fleet.
Speaking ahead of an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers in Ireland, Barrot expressed “full solidarity” with Germany regarding the attacks, which Berlin claims were carried out by Russia.
He described the incident as part of a broader Kremlin campaign to destabilise democratic processes and undermine European Union support for Ukraine.
“We will not allow such serious actions to pass without consequences. We will support the sanctions proposal submitted by Germany. We will also propose sanctions against a number of ships belonging to the shadow fleet,” said Barrot.
Barrot noted that he had summoned the Russian chargé d’affaires in Paris to convey a strong protest based on evidence provided by Germany.
According to the minister, the evidence indicates an “intent to sabotage these aircraft and logistics sites,” which have been utilised by Germany and Europe to support Ukraine.
Leipzig Airport serves as a major freight hub and a critical logistics node for military cargo, including flights involving Ukrainian Antonov aircraft.
Officials described the thwarted drone attack attempt as an effort to disrupt supply chains without resorting to conventional military strikes.
German authorities told the media that the attempted attack on Ukrainian Antonov cargo planes on 4 August was more serious than previously reported. The drones were equipped with explosives, and investigators concluded that multiple drones were involved rather than just one.
Russia has denied allegations of sabotage, drone infiltration, and espionage in countries allied with Ukraine, accusing Western governments of inciting “anti-Russian paranoia.”
Regarding the situation in the occupied West Bank, Barrot stated that France will call for new EU sanctions against those responsible and urge the European Commission to prevent the entry of goods originating from illegal settlements into the bloc.
Barrot also proposed the deployment of a mission to Palestine as early as September to support the holding of presidential and legislative elections. He stated that conducting elections would allow the Palestinian people to elect leaders who can serve as “fully legitimate partners for dialogue” with the international community.