Les vaux-de-cernay: French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot engaged in discussions with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas on Thursday, focusing on the situations in Ukraine and the Middle East, including maritime security and developments in Lebanon. The meeting took place on the sidelines of a G7 foreign affairs gathering in Les Vaux-de-Cernay, France.

According to Anadolu Agency, the dialogue prominently featured the EU's support for Ukraine amidst ongoing tensions. Barrot underscored France's advocacy for the swift adoption of the 20th package of sanctions against Russia. He reaffirmed France's commitment to counteracting the Russian shadow fleet, aligning with French President Emmanuel Macron's recent call for the EU to advance new punitive measures, with discussions anticipated shortly.

In a separate engagement, Barrot met with Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. He reiterated France's condemnation of Iran's attacks on its neighbors and expressed full solidarity with Saudi Arabia. Barrot stressed the importance of preventing further escalation in the region.

The situation is further complicated by continued US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran since February 28, resulting in over 1,340 fatalities, including the former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Tehran has launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets. These actions have led to casualties, infrastructure damage, and disruptions in global markets and aviation.