Zelenskyy and Macron Bolster Defense Ties

In a recent phone conversation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed key military strategies and defense reinforcements amid ongoing tensions with Russia. The discussion centered on Ukraine’s immediate defense needs and the strengthening of its air defense systems.

During the call, President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to President Macron for France’s strategic support and commitment to supplying necessary military equipment, including missiles for the SAMP/T systems and funding for interceptor drones. Both leaders agreed on the importance of preparing joint decisions with allied partners at the defense and foreign ministerial levels to safeguard Ukrainian lives from Russian attacks.

Further collaboration includes France’s readiness to train additional Ukrainian pilots on Mirage aircraft, enhancing Ukraine’s aerial capabilities. The leaders also reviewed steps within the Coalition of the Willing, following agreements from a recent meeting in Rome, and coordinated their political strategies to exert global pressure on Russia, emphasizing the importance of the EU’s 18th package of sanctions.

This dialogue underscores the robust partnership between Ukraine and France, as both nations continue to align their efforts in response to the ongoing conflict.