Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is set to sign significant military agreements with France on Monday. The deals aim to strengthen Ukraine’s air-defence capabilities and provide advanced warplanes and missiles. This comes as Russia has increased drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, while making gains in the Zaporizhzhia region. Zelenskiy’s visit to Paris is crucial as he seeks to enhance Ukraine’s long-term defence capacity amid ongoing Russian aggression.
In a post on X, Zelenskiy confirmed that a “historic agreement” is prepared with France, which will significantly boost Ukraine’s combat aviation and air defence. The talks will also include increasing the number of fighter jets and enhancing other defence capabilities. Zelenskiy’s visit is seen as an important step in securing vital military support from France, which has been under pressure to provide more assistance despite political and budgetary challenges.
Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron pledged to send more Mirage fighter jets and Aster 30 surface-to-air missiles to Ukraine. However, the upcoming agreements could go beyond these promises. Reports suggest that France may offer a 10-year strategic aviation deal, including Dassault-made Rafale fighter jets. These jets could either come from France’s existing stocks or be part of a longer-term plan to help Ukraine build a fleet of 250 warplanes.
The delivery of advanced warplanes will require extensive training for Ukrainian pilots. This process, combined with the delivery of more SAMP/T air-defence systems, will help Ukraine build a more capable military in the long run. However, the details of how these deals will be financed remain unclear. Macron’s office emphasized that the goal is to provide Ukraine with the systems it needs to counter Russian threats effectively.
Zelenskiy’s visit will also include a meeting with manufacturers like Dassault and a forum for Ukrainian and French firms to discuss drone collaboration. France and Britain are pushing for a coalition of 30 countries to support Ukraine long-term. This includes sending troops and military assets once a peace deal with Russia is reached. The goal is to ensure Ukraine has the resources to deter future Russian attacks.
