France to Supply Fighter Jets to Ukraine
In a notable development, France has decided to provide fighter jets to Ukraine for the first time. This arrangement was formalized in Paris on Monday, following discussions between French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.
According to the Elysee Palace, Ukraine will be acquiring around 100 Rafale fighter jets along with associated weapons from France over the next decade. Additionally, the deal includes next-generation air defense systems, drones, and bombs sourced from France.
This agreement comes at a time when President Zelenskiy is visiting various European capitals, aiming to garner support amid the escalating conflict with Russia. Recently, on Sunday, Ukraine secured an arrangement in Athens to receive U.S. liquid natural gas via Greece, ensuring energy supplies through the colder winter months. Zelenskiy is also expected to travel to Spain on Tuesday.
During a press conference in Paris, President Macron characterized the arms deal as a “new step” in France’s support for Ukraine, underscoring that it represents “Europe’s first line of defense.”
Macron remarked, “This agreement showcases France’s commitment to integrating its industrial prowess and technology into Ukraine and Europe.” He further expressed his aspiration for a “just and sustainable” peace.
The President added, “Russia has solely opted for war. Everyone is open to peace, but only Russia is unwilling to accept that.” He asserted that Russia is pursuing aims of domination over Ukraine.
Despite the Kremlin’s “intransigence,” Macron indicated hope for a peace agreement by the end of his current presidential term in 2027. He noted that recent months have witnessed significant turning points in the conflict, suggesting that pressure from previous U.S. administrations could force President Putin to negotiate.
Interestingly, Macron seemed to criticize former President Trump during the press conference, saying, “I’ve noticed that in other prominent democracies, some candidates claim that everything could change overnight, and perhaps we should halt support for Ukraine. However, facing reality could shift the dynamic significantly.”
President Zelenskiy celebrated the deal, saying, “This significantly bolsters our defense capabilities. We will together enhance the industrial and technological prospects of both France and Ukraine.”
In detail, Zelenskiy noted that Ukraine would receive 100 Rafale fighter jets, alongside four French radars, eight air defense systems, and six bomb-launching systems, emphasizing the importance of this support.
Meanwhile, Kremlin Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov mentioned that Moscow is interested in arranging a meeting between President Trump and President Putin at the earliest opportunity. He acknowledged, “It’s tough to predict when such meetings could occur. Still, there is a mutual interest in making them happen sooner or later.”
