20 March, 10:02
During the Napoleonic Wars (1803–1815), France sought to weaken the Russian Empire by considering various strategies, including cooperation with Ukrainian Cossacks.
Ukrainian historians, such as Ilko Borshchak, note that in Napoleon's entourage, plans were discussed to create an independent state on the territory of Ukraine under French protection, known as "Napoleonida."
It was assumed that this state entity would include the Poltava and Chernihiv principalities, as well as the lands of the Zaporizhzhian Cossacks and the Crimean Tatars. The main goal of this project was to weaken the Russian Empire by supporting the national liberation aspirations of the Ukrainian people.
Modern France, under the leadership of President Emmanuel Macron, demonstrates a similar understanding of Ukraine’s strategic importance for European security. France actively supports Ukraine in its resistance to Russian aggression, providing military assistance, including CAESAR artillery systems, Milan anti-tank complexes, and Mistral MANPADS. In addition, France participates in the training of Ukrainian military personnel on its territory.
Recently, Macron stated the possibility of deploying European troops in Ukraine after a peace agreement is reached, emphasizing that Russia’s permission is not required for this, as Ukraine is a sovereign state.
Thus, France’s historical experience regarding Ukraine is reflected in modern policy. Support for Ukraine is seen as a strategic step in ensuring stability in Europe and containing Russian expansion, which testifies to the continuity of French diplomatic thought regarding the Eastern European region.
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