by Giuseppe Gagliano –
In recent days, Ukrainian and Russian forces have exchanged waves of drones, and about seventy, most of them shot down by defense systems, have hit Russian territory almost up to the capital. As a precaution, Moscow authorities closed two civilian airports for a few hours.
After yesterday’s announcement by the Biden administration not to provide Atacms missiles as a priority to Ukraine (they will be sold to South Korea), it was the French government that decided to send about a dozen Scalp missiles to the Ukraine, along with a new supply of Mistral anti-aircraft missiles. This marks a major evolution in France’s approach to the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe. Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed the transfer of these weapons as part of President Emmanuel Macron’s commitment to support Kiev, responding directly to requests from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj. This move has major implications on both a geopolitical and strategic level, and it shows increased Western involvement in the conflict with Russia.
From a geopolitical perspective, France’s decision to provide Scalp missiles, known for their ability to hit targets outside the front line with surgical precision, represents a clear message of support to Ukraine. These cruise missiles, with a range of more than 250 kilometers, could allow Kiev to strike Russian strategic targets at depth, including logistics centers, military bases and command centers. Not only will this increase the pressure on Russia’s rear, but it could also affect the dynamics of the conflict, giving Ukraine more leverage in its military operations.
The movement of Scalp missiles is part of a context of increasing military support from NATO countries. Paris’s decision follows the precedent set by London by deploying Storm Shadow missiles, similar weapons that have already demonstrated their ability to change the balance on the battlefield. France, therefore, aligns with its Anglo-Saxon friends, showing greater cohesion within the alliance across the Atlantic. This shipment of missiles, although limited in number, represents a significant increase in France’s involvement, which could push other European countries to follow suit.
From a strategic perspective, the deployment of Mistral anti-aircraft missiles reflects the growing concern about intensified Russian attacks against Ukrainian critical infrastructure as winter approaches. The Mistral system, which is used for short-range defense, is essential for protecting frontline troops and civilian infrastructure, reducing the effectiveness of Russian drones and cruise missiles. With winter upon us, Moscow has historically increased its bombing campaigns against Ukraine’s energy networks and infrastructure, seeking to weaken the resistance of the civilian population and the fighting capacity of its forces reduce the armed forces of Ukraine.
In addition, the delivery of these advanced weapons could be interpreted as a defensive response to a possible escalation in Moscow. Strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses with Mistral missiles aims to reduce the country’s vulnerability to new air attacks, especially at a time when cold temperatures could increase the dependence of Ukrainian cities on energy networks.
Russia’s response to this French initiative is likely to be negative, with accusations of “incitement” and “incitement” from Moscow. However, it is clear that the strategy of the West, and especially of France, is aimed not only at strengthening the defense of Ukraine, but also at sending a sign of solidarity to the Kremlin: not only support for Kiev will continue, but will strengthen. if Russia continues its military campaign.
In conclusion, France’s decision to send Scalp and Mistral missiles to Ukraine represents a strategic move aimed at rebalancing capabilities on the ground and strengthening Kiev’s stability against Russian aggression. As the war enters a critical phase with the arrival of winter, Western military support is essential to ensure that Ukraine can continue to defend itself and can effectively counter an offensive. . However, this intensity of military support risks a more aggressive response from Russia, increasing uncertainty in a situation that is already complex and unpredictable.
