UA RU EN

First Visit to Ukraine by Brittany’s President Focuses on Aid for Kherson Region

Перший візит президента Бретані до України: акцент на підтримці для регіону Херсон. Photo: МЗС

Ukraine and Brittany Hold High-Level Talks

For the first time, the president of France’s Brittany region, Loïg Chesnais-Girard, traveled to Ukraine to meet with Deputy Foreign Minister Yevhen Perebyinis. Their discussion centered on the partnership between Brittany and Ukraine’s Kherson region—a cooperation agreement officially launched in February 2026. This visit marks a significant step in regional diplomacy between the two areas.

During the meeting, officials highlighted the delivery of over 1,000 kilometers of fishing nets, donated by Breton fishermen to help shield against Russian drones. The initiative underscores grassroots support from Brittany for Ukraine’s defense against foreign aggression.

Key Topics of Cooperation

Beyond the net donation, the talks covered backing for Ukraine’s European Union membership bid within the European Committee of the Regions. Strengthening sanctions against Russia was also discussed as a vital move to bolster international backing for Ukraine.

Additional points included expanding rest and rehabilitation programs for Ukrainian children in Brittany, a key humanitarian effort. Energy sector support ahead of the heating season was another priority, seen as crucial for maintaining the country’s power stability.

Loïg Chesnais-Girard stated: “Supporting Ukraine reflects France’s solidarity with the Ukrainian people in their fight against Russian armed aggression.”

This meeting between Ukrainian and Breton representatives signals a deepening of interregional ties and a ramp-up in international support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. The fishing net transfer and children’s wellness initiatives highlight both the humanitarian and military dimensions of assistance, which could positively impact conditions in Ukraine. France’s involvement sends a strong message to other nations about the need for more active international backing of Ukraine.