Ukraine, France Seek Faster Air Defense Support

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses and accelerating the delivery of French military equipment during a two-hour phone call on Aug. 22, according to Ukraine’s presidential office.

Zelenskyy briefed Macron on Russian strikes against Ukraine and the country’s urgent need for additional air-defense systems and missiles. He thanked Macron for offering to engage partners that possess missiles for Patriot systems and for discussing France’s own air-defense capabilities.

The two leaders agreed to speed up deliveries of French equipment and missiles. Zelenskyy also thanked Macron for France’s readiness to provide licenses for missile production. Macron expressed condolences for those killed in the attacks, the statement said.

The conversation also covered diplomatic coordination with international partners, including communication with the U.S. president’s team. Zelenskyy and Macron discussed steps to expand diplomatic efforts, funding for Ukraine’s defense in 2026 and 2027, and bilateral defense agreements requiring faster implementation.