French President Emmanuel Macron announced that he will seek a second term as president next month. Russia's war in Ukraine may boost his chances.

In a letter to the French people, Macron announced his attempt to be the first French president in France to be re-elected in 20 years.

The 44-year old's announcement was repeatedly delayed because of Russia's special operation in Donbass, as France's President took on a prominent role in diplomatic talks between the two sides.

"I'm a candidate to invent, with you, and faced with the challenges of this century, a singular French and European response," he said, adding "I am a candidate to defend our values that are threatened by the disruptions of the world."

Polls show that Macron is the frontrunner in the two-round elections, which will take place on April 10 and 24. With the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, foreign policy will be the focus of attention.