France Wants to Increase Pressure on Russia, Peskov Said: A Deepening Rift Between Paris and Moscow

In yet another sign of deteriorating relations between Russia and the West, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has accused France of actively seeking to escalate pressure on Russia. His statement comes in the context of rising European support for Ukraine, growing NATO solidarity, and increased Western sanctions.

As France takes on a more assertive leadership role within the European Union, Moscow is reacting with sharpened rhetoric, warning of the consequences of continued confrontation. This article explores what Peskov said, the background of France’s foreign policy, and the potential implications for international diplomacy.

Peskov’s Statement: A Response to French Actions

Kremlin Accuses France of Escalation

During a press briefing, Dmitry Peskov stated that France is one of the Western countries “most inclined to increase pressure on Russia.” He emphasized that Paris was not only following Washington’s line but actively shaping anti-Russian initiatives within the EU.

“France demonstrates a consistent course toward increasing pressure on our country. This includes not just military support for Ukraine, but information warfare and diplomatic hostility,”
— Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin Press Secretary

These remarks followed a series of comments made by French President Emmanuel Macron, who has advocated for maintaining strategic ambiguity toward Russia and has not ruled out Western troops potentially being sent to Ukraine under certain scenarios.

France’s Current Stance on Russia

Military and Political Support for Ukraine

France has been a key backer of Ukraine, supplying artillery systems, armored vehicles, training, and intelligence support. Macron has also pushed for a “more credible European deterrent”, warning that the war in Ukraine could eventually spill over into NATO territory if not stopped.

In 2024 and 2025, France increased:

• Defense aid packages to Kyiv

• Sanctions on Russian economic sectors

• Intelligence cooperation with NATO members

• Cybersecurity coordination to counter Russian influence

Shift Toward Harder Rhetoric

Originally known for his nuanced and diplomatic approach toward Russia, Macron’s tone has hardened, especially after alleged Russian cyberattacks on French institutions and disinformation campaigns during French elections.

This shift from dialogue to deterrence has not gone unnoticed in Moscow.

Why Is Peskov Reacting Now?

1. NATO Alignment and Macron’s Military Posturing

France’s rhetorical support for NATO “boots on the ground” in Ukraine, even if hypothetical, has alarmed Russian officials. Peskov’s comments likely reflect fears that France, once seen as a potential mediator, is now a proactive military and ideological opponent.

2. Information and Narrative Warfare

The Kremlin perceives France’s public diplomacy, including media narratives and cultural boycotts, as part of a broader information campaign to delegitimize Russia on the international stage. Peskov’s statement can be seen as an attempt to counter these narratives and rally domestic and international support.

3. Pre-emptive Response to Upcoming EU Actions

The European Union is reportedly preparing new rounds of sanctions, some of which are believed to be driven by France and Germany. Peskov may be trying to frame France as an aggressor, to justify Russian countermeasures.

How the Statement Was Received in France

French Officials Downplay the Remarks

French authorities have not directly responded to Peskov’s latest comments but maintain that France’s actions are within the framework of defending European values, sovereignty, and international law. They also emphasize that Russia alone is responsible for the consequences of its actions in Ukraine and beyond.

Public and Media Reaction

French media outlets view Peskov’s words as part of Russia’s regular diplomatic messaging, though some right-leaning commentators see it as a warning against overextension. Others highlight that Peskov’s statements reflect growing unease in the Kremlin about the tightening Western front.

Broader Geopolitical Implications

Russia’s View of France as a Strategic Player

Peskov’s targeting of France signals that Moscow sees Paris as a key ideological and military threat, second only to the United States. France’s permanent seat on the UN Security Council, its nuclear arsenal, and its historical influence make it a natural target for Russian counter-propaganda.

EU and NATO Unity at Risk?

While Russia’s criticism is meant to sow division among European countries, Peskov’s statement could inadvertently strengthen EU and NATO cohesion, by reinforcing the perception of a shared threat and validating the need for continued unity.

What’s Next?

For France:

• Continued commitment to Ukraine and NATO

• Likely participation in shaping the next EU sanctions package

• Heightened cybersecurity vigilance

For Russia:

• Escalation in diplomatic rhetoric

• Possible economic or information retaliation

• Increased focus on portraying France as a belligerent actor in international forums

Conclusion

Dmitry Peskov’s assertion that France wants to increase pressure on Russia reflects the widening diplomatic and ideological gulf between Paris and Moscow. What was once a complex relationship marked by dialogue and tension has now hardened into mutual mistrust and confrontation.

As France continues to assert itself within NATO and the EU, and as Russia fortifies its strategic defenses—both militarily and in the information sphere—the rivalry between the two nations is set to intensify. The question is no longer whether France will increase pressure on Russia, but how far this pressure will go—and how Moscow will respond.