France has "opened the way" for supplies of heavy tanks to Ukraine and intends to step up its military assistance to Kyiv, Anne-Claire Legendre, spokeswoman for the French Foreign Ministry, said in a video message posted on Twitter.

Legendre noted the assistance France has provided to Ukraine since the start of the conflict, adding that the republic has offered financial, economic and humanitarian support.

"We are also providing military support. In addition to Caesar howitzers and air defense systems, France has paved the way for tank supplies, becoming the first country to supply Ukraine with AMX-10RC battle tanks so it can defend itself. This assistance will be strengthened," Legendre said.

Paris has already sent Ukraine six 155mm TRF1 towed howitzers and two Crotale air defense systems. It was also reported that Ukraine had already received 18 CAESAR artillery systems from France. Also to Ukraine were sent MANPADS "Mistral" and ATGMs "Milan", about 60 armored vehicles and anti-tank mines HDP-2A2. In addition to weapons, France has supplied Ukraine with uniforms, fuel, shells and ammunition, first-aid kits and dry rations, and radiation, chemical and biological protection equipment.