The following is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price:
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian about ongoing efforts by NATO Allies, EU partners, G7 members, and other partners to address Russia’s continued military build-up on Ukraine’s borders, and the importance of continuing to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. They discussed joint efforts to strengthen NATO’s Eastern Flank and to ensure Russia understands the high costs it would incur if it were to invade Ukraine further. Secretary Blinken and Foreign Minister Le Drian also reviewed ongoing developments in the Sahel region of Africa.