Zelensky, Macron discuss air defense, winter aid in New York

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with French President Emmanuel Macron in New York on Sept. 22 to discuss security and winter support for Ukraine, including additional air defense systems. The meeting occurred on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly, where the war in Ukraine was a key agenda item.

Zelensky announced that France would provide additional SAMP/T air defense systems and missiles. Macron pledged steadfast French support, emphasizing strengthened air defenses through the delivery of radars and interceptors. France and Italy have previously supplied Ukraine with a SAMP/T system, and another was delivered a year later. Paris and Rome also authorized the licensed production of Aster 30 missiles, ammunition for the SAMP/T systems, in Ukraine.

Kyiv and Paris announced in July that Ukraine intends to order four next-generation SAMP/T systems, potentially making Ukraine the first country to deploy the latest model. France pledged to begin deliveries in 2027 and to temporarily lend Ukraine two older SAMP/T complexes until the new models arrive. Air defense is a critical focus for Ukraine as it anticipates a new wave of Russian missile attacks this winter amid shortages of U.S.-made Patriot missile interceptors.

Macron also noted that he had discussed assistance for Kyiv, as well as proposals for an energy and Black Sea ceasefire, with U.S. President Donald Trump earlier in the week. Zelensky was also scheduled to meet Trump later on Sept. 22 to discuss steps toward de-escalation of the war.