France has rejected Russian claims that Ukraine is seeking nuclear weapons or a so-called “dirty bomb” with assistance from London or Paris, calling the accusations baseless and part of ongoing disinformation efforts.
The Russian SVR intelligence service released the statement on the fourth anniversary of the conflict in Ukraine, asserting that Britain and France believed Kyiv could negotiate better terms if it possessed nuclear capabilities. No documentary evidence was provided to support these claims.
Olivia Penichou, communications director at the French Ministry of Defence, said the allegations were “picked up by various Russian propaganda outlets” and represent a deliberate attempt to sow mistrust regarding France’s support for Ukraine.
“The Russian Federation often uses disinformation to create confusion about the actions of France and its allies,” Penichou added, emphasizing that this is just the latest example.
France maintains that it has always respected its international obligations, including those under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and has no plans to engage in nuclear proliferation.
Earlier in the week, the French foreign ministry indicated that such blatant falsehoods do not merit official responses. Instead, it has chosen to address the claims indirectly, including through its English-language @frenchresponse X account, which posted several dismissive messages mocking the Russian statements.
Analysts note that the spread of such disinformation serves to distract international attention and undermine trust between allies, particularly in the context of ongoing Western support for Ukraine’s defense.
France continues to provide diplomatic and military support to Ukraine while reiterating its commitment to global nuclear non-proliferation and regional security in Europe.
