Zelenskyy Presses for Swift French Military Assistance
The high-stakes discussions centered on bolstering Ukraine's aerial defenses through additional systems and missiles while expanding aviation capacity via French-manufactured warplanes.
Zelenskyy expressed deep appreciation for backing from French President Emmanuel Macron, his administration, and the French public since Russia's full-scale invasion launched in early 2022.
The Ukrainian leader briefed Vautrin on damage inflicted during the overnight Russian assault and detailed critical requirements to enhance defensive capabilities and national resilience. He underscored the urgency of procuring SAMP/T systems and French Mirage aircraft as Moscow sustains relentless aerial campaigns.
"Mirage aircraft are already integrated into Ukraine's air defense system, intercepting the 'shaheds' that Russia uses daily. We rely on continued support in this area," said Zelenskyy. He noted that finalizing an agreement on Ukraine's next-generation aviation fleet would enable procurement of Rafale aircraft, adding that Kyiv anticipates receiving advanced SAMP/T systems.
Zelenskyy emphasized that accelerated deployment of air defense hardware would dramatically strengthen protection over Ukrainian skies. He indicated Kyiv aims to swiftly execute collaborative ventures with Paris under European frameworks, specifically SAFE—an EU initiative enabling member states to purchase weaponry and munitions for Ukraine directly from Ukrainian defense manufacturers.
Vautrin pledged France's unwavering commitment, highlighting ongoing coordination with Ukraine's Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov on radar upgrades and drone manufacturing partnerships.
"France will honor its commitments regarding Rafale. As for the deliveries, they will be carried out as planned under the SAFE instrument," she said, noting that Paris would maintain efforts to mobilize the European defense-industrial sector to enhance capabilities and autonomy.
Discussions also tackled sanctions enforcement against Russia. Zelenskyy praised France's detention of a vessel from Russia's shadow fleet, urging other nations to implement comparable measures and enact legal reforms to completely blockade Russian tankers.
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the
information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept
any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images,
videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information
contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright
issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
