In a display of solidarity and support for Ukraine, French President Emmanuel Macron orchestrated the transportation of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the G7 summit in Japan aboard a French government-labelled military aircraft. The move underscored France’s commitment to assisting Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia, despite occasional scepticism from some allies regarding Macron’s diplomatic efforts.
The Ukrainian delegation’s journey commenced in Jeddah, where President Zelensky addressed the Arab League before embarking on the momentous trip to Hiroshima. French officials revealed that the decision to transport President Zelensky via the French army was made on Wednesday, following weeks of discussions with the Japanese hosts and other G7 members.
The inclusion of representatives from the Global South, including India and Brazil, at the summit further contributed to the impetus for Zelensky’s presence. With both nations maintaining closer ties with Moscow, Ukraine aimed to engage with these countries and present its position on the conflict, seizing the opportunity to foster dialogue with states that have previously remained neutral.
Speaking ahead of his bilateral meeting with Macron in Hiroshima, President Zelensky expressed gratitude to France and noted receiving “positive signals” from Arab states, although he did not elaborate further. An official who accompanied the Ukrainian delegation on the 15-hour flight from Saudi Arabia to Japan highlighted the visibly exhausted state of the Ukrainian team, who utilized the flight to catch up on sleep. Despite the fatigue, Zelensky repeatedly engaged with his diplomatic and military advisors, strategizing on how to address the diverse perspectives and dynamics of potential interlocutors.
This was not the first instance where France extended its aviation assistance to Ukraine. Previously, a French government Falcon jet had transported President Zelensky from Brussels to Poland in February, following a European heads of state summit.
President Macron took to Twitter to acknowledge the arrival of the Ukrainian delegation, emphasizing the joint commitment to Ukraine’s victory and the restoration of peace in Europe. Macron’s diplomatic efforts, coupled with France’s substantial military and financial aid to Ukraine, exemplify the country’s unwavering support for its Eastern European ally.
As President Zelensky joins the G7 summit, all eyes are on the discussions and outcomes that will shape the future of the region and international relations. The presence of Ukraine at the summit, facilitated by France, highlights the importance of addressing the ongoing conflict and finding a resolution that ensures stability and peace in Europe.
