France converts € 300 million of frozen Russian assets into Caesar howitzers for Ukraine

Paris will finance 12 Caesar howitzers along with critical military hardware.

Oct 20, 2024 - 16:00

France converts € 300 million of frozen Russian assets into Caesar howitzers for Ukraine

West arm

France plans to utilize 300 million euros in interest from frozen Russian assets to purchase military equipment for Ukraine, BFMTV reports. This includes 12 new Caesar self-propelled howitzers, enhancing Ukraine’s artillery capabilities in the ongoing war with Russia.

The announcement comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy seeks to maintain strong allied support against Russian aggression. Zelenskyy recently presented his victory plan to Western allies to strengthen Ukraine’s negotiating position.

Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu outlined that the funds, to be recovered by end-2024, will finance not only the Caesar howitzers but also crucial military hardware such as 155mm shells, Aster missiles, AASM guided bombs, and Mistral missile systems.

This contribution builds on France’s existing support. The Defense Ministry confirms 60 Caesar howitzers have already been delivered to Ukraine, and the number is expected to reach 80 by the end of 2024.

Lecornu expressed interest in Zelenskyy’s plan, stating certain aspects “merit further development.” He stressed the importance of strengthening Ukraine’s negotiating position, asserting that “Russia will only respect a favorable balance of power.”

Looking forward, Lecornu emphasized the need for long-term security guarantees for Ukraine, including potential NATO membership and efforts to build a robust Ukrainian military capable of deterring future Russian aggression.

Read more:

You could close this page. Or you could join our community and help us produce more materials like this. We keep our reporting open and accessible to everyone because we believe in the power of free information. This is why our small, cost-effective team depends on the support of readers like you to bring deliver timely news, quality analysis, and on-the-ground reports about Russia's war against Ukraine and Ukraine's struggle to build a democratic society. A little bit goes a long way: for as little as the cost of one cup of coffee a month, you can help build bridges between Ukraine and the rest of the world, plus become a co-creator and vote for topics we should cover next. Become a patron or see other ways to support. Become a Patron!