A French diplomatic source reported on Monday that "France will send its ambassador to the inauguration ceremony of Russian President Vladimir Putin for a new six-year term tomorrow, Tuesday, in contrast to Germany, which stated it would not send a representative." The French diplomatic source noted that "France will be represented by its ambassador to Russia," and mentioned that "Paris has previously condemned the repression that accompanied the elections and the deprivation of voters of a real choice, as well as organizing elections in Ukrainian territories occupied by Russia, which France considers a violation of international law and the United Nations Charter."
Paris's decision indicates a potential split in the Western camp, as several countries, including the Baltic states, are strongly opposed to granting Putin any form of legitimacy, which could undermine Ukraine's position in its war with Russia that Moscow started over two years ago. Putin won an unprecedented overwhelming majority in the post-Soviet era elections held in March, which further solidifies his already tight grip on power, just weeks after the death of Alexei Navalny, Putin's most prominent opponent in prison. Western governments condemned Putin's reelection, describing it as unfair and undemocratic.
French-Russian relations have deteriorated in recent months as Paris has increased its support for Ukraine. Last week, President Emmanuel Macron did not rule out sending troops to Ukraine, stating that if Russia breached Ukrainian front lines, it would be legitimate to consider the matter if Kyiv requested support.
