London - France plans to supply a first out of two Mistral helicopter carriers to Russia, while a decision on whether to deliver a second Mistral helicopter carrier will depend on Russia's attitude over the Ukraine crisis, French President François Hollande has said.
“For the time being, a level of sanctions has not been decided on that would prevent this delivery,” Hollande said.
“Does that mean that the rest of the contract – the second Mistral –
can be carried through? That depends on Russia’s attitude,” Hollande
added.
As reported, the West is mulling the possible toughening of sanctions
towards Russia, including a ban on supply of weapons to Russia. The
United States and Britain support this idea.
The cancelation of a contract on supply of helicopter carriers to
Russia threatens the country with a fine of over 1 billion euros.
