Key facts
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that French President Emmanuel Macron agreed to accelerate the delivery of French air defense equipment and missiles.
- The leaders discussed the potential for France to provide licenses for missile production in Ukraine.
- Ukraine is awaiting the Italo-French SAMP/T-NG missile defense system.
- A declaration of intent was signed on November 17, outlining potential future contracts for Ukraine to acquire 100 Rafale fighter jets and SAMP/T air defense systems.
- French President Emmanuel Macron expressed hope for peace by 2027 and emphasized the need for a strong Ukrainian army.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that French President Emmanuel Macron has agreed to speed up the delivery of advanced French air defense equipment and missiles to Ukraine. The leaders also discussed the possibility of France providing licenses for missile production.
Zelensky stated on the Telegram app that the agreement would accelerate the delivery of the latest French equipment and missiles, though he did not provide further specifics. Ukraine is anticipating the arrival of the new Italo-French SAMP/T-NG missile defense system, which is expected to be capable of intercepting ballistic missiles. Experts had previously indicated that this system was not anticipated to reach Ukraine until spring of the following year.
During Zelensky's official trip to France on November 17, he and Macron signed a declaration of intent concerning cooperation in the defense sector. This agreement enables Ukraine to purchase defense materiel from the French industry, including up to 100 Rafale F4 aircraft by 2035, SAMP/T air defense systems, associated radars, air-to-air missiles, and aerial bombs. Zelensky indicated that Ukraine aims to acquire eight SAMP/T systems, each equipped with six launchers. France, along with Italy, had previously supplied Ukraine with a SAMP/T battery.
Macron emphasized the importance of maintaining pressure on Russia and warned against diminishing support for Ukraine, expressing hope that peace could be achieved by 2027. Zelensky inspected advanced French weaponry, including Rafale jets and the SAMP/T system, during his visit. Paris is also preparing an additional defense aid package for Ukraine by the end of the year. Macron acknowledged the current difficult phase of the conflict and accused Russia of an "addiction for war," while stressing that a strong Ukrainian army is necessary for lasting peace.
In parallel, Zelensky announced an overhaul of state-owned energy companies following a corruption scandal, leading to the resignation of two ministers. Macron noted that Ukraine's path toward European Union membership requires significant reforms.