Macron to approve U.S. long-range missiles "because of North Korean military participation"

French President Emmanuel Macron said the U.S. authorization of Ukraine to use long-range weapons to hit the Russian mainland was a move prompted by the North Korean military's participation in the war.

French daily Le Monde said President Macron told reporters in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where the G20 summit will be held, that the North Korean military's participation in the war is a significant change that should not be underestimated.

Macron said Russia is the only force escalating the conflict at the moment and criticized Moscow for bringing North Korea, a highly aggressive force committed to its nuclear program, including long-range missiles, into its alliance.

Macron's government has provided Ukraine with a long-range air-to-ground cruise missile (SCALP) but has limited attacks on the Russian mainland, but is considering allowing it to follow the United States.