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France’s Macron awards Legion of Honour to Ukraine’s Zelenskiy
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PARIS (Reuters) – President Emmanuel Macron has bestowed the Legion of Honour on Ukraine’s leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy during a visit to Paris.
PARIS (Reuters) – President Emmanuel Macron has bestowed the Legion of Honour on Ukraine’s leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy during a visit to Paris.
It is the highest award a French president can give to a counterpart, the Elysee Palace said in an overnight statement.
“A salute to Ukraine and its people. A salute to you, dear Volodymyr, for your courage and commitment,” Macron wrote on social media.
Zelenskiy told Macron and Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz late on Wednesday that they had the opportunity to be “game changers” in the war against Russia by not hesitating in delivering heavy weapons and modern fighter jets to Ukraine.
A video posted by the Elysee presidential palace showed Macron handing the medal to Zelenskiy, dressed in his trademark khaki attire, in an opulent room. The two men shared a warm embrace and held hands as Zelenskiy responded to Macron.
“I said to the president, I said I think it’s too much for me, and that’s why I address it (the decoration) of course for all of our people, the Ukrainians, for our society. And a great honour to be here,” Zelenskiy is heard telling those in the room.
(Reporting by Elizabeth Pineau, Editing by Richard Lough and Bernadette Baum)
The Legion of Honour is the highest civilian award in France, established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802. It recognizes outstanding service to the French nation and is awarded to both French citizens and foreigners.
A presidential visit refers to an official trip made by a head of state to another country, typically to strengthen diplomatic relations, discuss bilateral issues, or participate in international events.
Heavy weapons are large-caliber firearms and artillery that are designed for military use. They include tanks, artillery pieces, and missile systems, often used in combat situations.
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