Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a substantive, hour-long conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss the situation on the frontline and Ukraine’s urgent defense needs.
Zelensky expressed his appreciation for Macron’s “truly strategic vision and readiness to help with exactly what our soldiers need.”
A key focus of their discussion was strengthening Ukraine’s air defense, including the supply of missiles for SAMP/T systems and funding interceptor drones.
“We will prepare joint decisions with France and partners at the level of defense and foreign ministers regarding new steps to protect the lives of our people from Russian strikes,” Zelensky said.
The presidents also agreed on the training of pilots for the Mirage jets, with France ready to accept additional Ukrainian pilots and provide more aircraft for their instruction.
Zelensky emphasized the importance of ongoing cooperation within the coalition of willing partners and thanked France for its “significant contribution to the development and promotion of the European Union’s 18th sanctions package.”
He added, “Together with American partners, we are working to ensure Russia feels truly global pressure. Every day this war is prolonged must come with painful consequences for Russia.”
The two leaders also coordinated their next political moves to further support Ukraine’s defense and sovereignty.
