Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Paris on Monday (November 17th) to finalize a major military agreement with French President Emmanuel Macron. The agreement is expected to include enhancing air defense capabilities, expanding the fleet of fighter jets, and acquiring additional missiles to strengthen Ukraine’s long-term ability to resist Russian invasion.
Zelensky posted on social media on Sunday: “We have also prepared a historic agreement with France – this will significantly strengthen our air combat power, air defense, and other defense capabilities. According to the itinerary of this visit, this will be realized on Monday.”
Macron pledged last month to provide more Mirage fighter jets in addition to the previously promised 6 aircraft, along with a new batch of Aster 30 ground-to-air defense missiles produced by the European group MBDA for the SAMP/T air defense system operating in Kyiv.
Two sources familiar with the matter also told Reuters that this visit could bring further benefits to Kyiv. The agreement may include a 10-year strategic aviation agreement to provide Kyiv with multi-role Rafale fighter jets produced by Dassault.
While some aircraft may come directly from France’s existing inventory, most will be part of a long-term order to help Ukraine achieve its goal of having 250 aircraft.
Due to the rigorous training courses required for aspiring pilots to operate these advanced fighter jets, it will take some time.
In addition to advanced weapon systems, the two leaders will also participate in a forum on joint production of drones at the Élysée Palace, where French and Ukrainian companies will discuss how to deepen cooperation.
Ukraine has stated its plans to deploy over 4.5 million drones this year, including for frontline attack missions and intercepting Russian drones.
Furthermore, Zelensky signed a memorandum last month which may lead to the purchase of up to 150 Gripen fighter jets from Sweden in the future.
This marks Zelensky’s ninth visit to Paris since the 2022 Russian invasion, and while these potential significant arms deals may be facilitated, challenges and hurdles still need to be overcome.
Insiders point out that it is currently unclear how the funding for these deals will be secured. Given recent political and budget instability in Paris, questions arise about how much practical assistance France can actually provide.
In addition, the Zelensky government is facing a new corruption scandal involving energy companies.
French Minister of European Affairs Benjamin Haddad stated in a televised interview on Saturday that as Ukraine continues to strive for EU membership, governments must maintain “extra vigilance” against corruption issues.
This visit to Paris is part of Zelensky’s brief tour of Western allies, having recently signed an energy agreement with Greece and planning a visit to Spain on Tuesday.
Macron’s office emphasized that the goal of this meeting is to enable Ukraine to “acquire the systems necessary to counter Russian aggression” and to leverage “France’s excellence in the defense industry” in service of Ukraine’s defense.
Both presidents will also visit the Ukrainian Multinational Force Headquarters, which is part of the “coalition of the willing” organized by France and the UK, aimed at preparing for the possible deployment of international forces in Ukraine after the ceasefire and ensuring Ukraine has sufficient long-term military and economic aid to build a strong army to deter any future Russian aggression.
(Note: This article is partially based on relevant reports by Reuters and Agence France-Presse)