France has dismissed Russia's claims that Ukraine seeks to acquire a nuclear weapon or dirty bomb with support from the UK or France, calling it yet another instance of Russian disinformation.
On Thursday, France responded to what it described as unfounded Russian allegations that Ukraine was attempting to acquire nuclear weapons or a dirty bomb with the assistance of London or Paris. This statement came as Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) claimed that both Britain and France believed Ukraine could secure better terms if it possessed a 'nuclear bomb or at least a so-called 'dirty bomb'. However, the SVR did not provide any evidence to support this assertion.
The French Ministry of Defence's communications director, Olivia Peniseau, addressed these allegations during a press briefing, stating that the unfounded claims from the SVR had been reported by various Russian propaganda outlets and some foreign news agencies. She emphasized that the Russian Federation frequently resorts to misinformation to cultivate a narrative that serves its interests in the ongoing conflict. This response marks the fourth anniversary of the conflict in Ukraine, highlighting the ongoing tensions and the use of disinformation in international relations.
France's stance reinforces its commitment to countering disinformation narratives propagated by Russian state media, as it seeks to maintain clarity and factual correctness amidst a complex geopolitical situation. The denial of these claims also serves to reassure partner nations and affirm Ukraine's right to defend itself as it navigates the harsh realities of war against the backdrop of Russian aggression.
