Macron discusses aid for Ukraine with Zelensky, welcomes departure of vessel carrying grain

PARIS. Aug 1 (Interfax) - French President Emmanuel Macron had a telephone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday to reaffirm France's determination to continue providing support to Ukraine.

"The President of the Republic asked President Zelensky about his military, humanitarian and economic needs," the French presidential office said in a statement following the call.

Macron "confirmed France's determination to continue supporting the Ukrainian Armed Forces," it said.

The French president "welcomed the departure today from the Port of Odesa of a first ship carrying Ukrainian cereals."

"He also indicated that European efforts to export Ukrainian grain by land and river will continue within the framework of solidarity corridors," it said.