Zelenskyy, Macron sign Paris agreement to bolster Ukraine's defenses

The Ukrainian President's Office reported the information.

The agreement concerns Ukraine's acquisition of defense equipment.

Details of the agreement

According to Reuters, the leaders were also expected to finalize contracts for additional air defense systems, missiles, and military aircraft to enhance Ukraine's long-term defense capabilities amid intensified Russian strikes on energy infrastructure.

Negotiations to expand French assistance have been ongoing for several weeks. French President Emmanuel Macron had previously announced the transfer of six Mirage fighter jets and a new batch of Aster 30 missiles for SAMP/T batteries to Kyiv.

According to two sources, a 10-year strategic aviation agreement may also be concluded during the current visit, providing for the supply of multi-role Rafale fighter jets to Ukraine. Some of the aircraft may come from French stocks, while others will be under long-term contracts.

Separately, according to two sources for the publication, additional SAMP/T systems may be agreed upon. It is not yet clear how these agreements will be financed.

Two sources reported that agreements could also be signed on Monday for the supply of additional SAMP/T air defense systems from existing French stocks or as part of long-term orders for new-generation systems, including missiles and anti-drone systems.