Zelensky Meets French Defense Minister to Push for Faster Military Aid
The discussions focused on strengthening Ukraine’s air defense with additional systems and missiles, as well as expanding aviation capabilities through French-made aircraft. Zelenskyy emphasized the country’s appreciation for the support of French President Emmanuel Macron, the government, and the French public since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in early 2022.
During the meeting, Zelenskyy briefed Vautrin on the impact of a recent Russian strike and outlined the measures needed to enhance protection and resilience. He stressed the importance of supplying SAMP/T systems and French Mirage aircraft as Russia continues large-scale aerial assaults.
“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,” Zelenskyy said.
He added that an agreement on Ukraine’s future aviation capabilities would allow the acquisition of Rafale aircraft and a new generation of SAMP/T systems.
The president also highlighted that faster delivery of air defense equipment would significantly improve Ukraine’s airspace protection. He said Kyiv aims to implement joint projects with France under European initiatives, particularly SAFE – an EU program enabling member states to purchase weapons and ammunition for Ukraine from the domestic defense industry.
Vautrin reaffirmed France’s commitment, citing cooperation with Ukraine’s Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov on radar modernization and drone production.
“France will honor its commitments regarding Rafale. As for the deliveries, they will be carried out as planned under the SAFE instrument,” she said, adding that Paris will continue working with the European defense-industrial sector to strengthen capabilities and sovereignty.
The meeting also addressed sanctions against Russia. Zelenskyy welcomed France’s detention of a tanker linked to Russia’s shadow fleet and called on other countries to take similar measures and introduce legislative changes to fully block Russian tankers.
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