French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed that Ukraine “needs our support more than ever,” as he hosted Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Paris.

“Ukrainian victory is existential for Europe and for the entire world”, - Kristersson said, setting out the priorities for Sweden as it took over the rotating presidency of the European Union on January 1.

The two leaders mentioned Sweden and Finland’s application to join NATO, with Macron saying Sweden can “count on France’s support and solidarity.”

Kristersson said Sweden was “very grateful” for the “strong support,” adding “we are right now doing exactly what we said we were going to do to be able to enter the Alliance as soon as possible”.