Post by : Raina
Al-Fahim
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky traveled to Paris on Monday, aiming to bolster Ukraine’s defense in the wake of escalating Russian missile and drone attacks. This visit is part of Zelensky’s tour across Western allies and follows an energy agreement made with Greece just a day prior, with Spain also on his itinerary for Tuesday.
In his talks with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace, Zelensky received assurances of France’s ongoing support for Ukraine. Macron highlighted that the expertise of France’s armaments sector would be “dedicated to bolstering Ukraine's defense.” The discussions aimed to identify mechanisms through which Ukraine can obtain advanced military technology, particularly in air-defense systems.
Kicking off his visit at Villacoublay Air Base near Paris, the two leaders assessed the capabilities of France’s Rafale fighter jets along with the SAMP-T surface-to-air missile system, developed in collaboration with Italy. This advanced system is designed to counteract fighters, missiles, and tactical ballistic threats, with a new generation expected to launch by 2027.
France has already committed to supplying additional Aster missiles for Ukraine, which are compatible with both the SAMP-T system and airborne platforms. Zelensky, in a video statement released on Friday, expressed optimism about a “historic agreement” coming soon, signaling the imminent finalization of a significant defense contract with France. The talks also included discussions on drone production, with Ukraine aiming to deploy over 4.5 million drones for both offensive and defensive operations against Russian forces in the current year.
Additionally, Zelensky and Macron visited the Mont Valerien headquarters of a multinational coalition being established by France and Britain, which may mobilize in Ukraine following a potential ceasefire, with 34 nations, including Ukraine, already declaring their support.
This marks Zelensky’s ninth official visit to France since the onset of the Russian invasion in 2022, as his administration contends with a corruption scandal regarding Ukrainian energy companies. France’s Europe Minister Benjamin Haddad underscored the importance of vigilance while Ukraine continues its pursuit of EU membership.
In light of rising tensions both on the battlefield and in diplomatic circles, Zelensky's mission in Paris is focused on securing cutting-edge weaponry, reinforcing European support, and enhancing Ukraine’s capabilities to safeguard its sovereignty against persistent Russian hostility.
English
