Crisis in Ukraine: French nationals do not panic

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FRANCE 2

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D.Olliéric, C.Kenck, A.Bezluidnyi, L.Lavieille – France 2

France Televisions

As tensions rise between Ukraine and Russia, the Americans and the British have called on their nationals to leave the country without delay. A decision that surprises the French still present in Ukraine bus many don’t plan on packing up just yet.

At the center of diplomatic tensions, the city of Kiev (Ukraine) yet shows no sign of negotiations. The thousands of French people living in Ukraine are not panicking either. Christopherowner of a pastry shop in the country made note : “For the moment, all the French people I know, they are still there, they are not worried about the file”. All are in contact with the French Embassy in the event of an attack. Christopher continues: “I think it’s more political pressure than an invasion that’s being prepared.”


The feeling is the same in the most exclusive French restaurant in Kiev. Robin, the chief declares : “If it really starts to blow up, either I stay in Ukraine or I go back to France”. But to 30 minutes from Kiev, the atmosphere is quite different. Ukrainian civilians train in the use of weapons. They say they are ready for all scenarios, including an imminent war.


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