Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is set to sign a series of defence agreements with France on Monday, aimed at boosting Kyiv’s air-defence systems, warplanes, and missile capabilities as Russia continues its invasion. Zelenskiy arrived in Paris for talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, following a surge in Russian drone and missile strikes and reports of Moscow’s advances in the southeastern Zaporizhzhia region.
“A historic agreement has been prepared with France – there will be a significant strengthening of our combat aviation, air defence, and other defence capabilities,” Zelenskiy said on X on Sunday, confirming the Monday timeline.
Discussions over the past weeks focused on how France could enhance Ukraine’s air-defence capacity despite political and budgetary uncertainties in Paris. Macron had previously pledged to supply additional Mirage fighter jets, beyond an initial promise of six, along with new Aster 30 surface-to-air missiles for Ukraine’s SAMP/T air-defence batteries.
Sources briefed on the visit indicate that Monday’s agreements could include a 10-year strategic aviation deal, potentially providing Ukraine with multi-role Rafale jets from French stocks or through long-term deliveries. These jets would be integrated into Ukraine’s broader goal of expanding its air fleet to 250 warplanes, alongside U.S. F-16s and Sweden’s Gripen fighters. Training for pilots to operate these advanced aircraft is expected to take time.
Additional deals could cover more SAMP/T air-defence systems, including missiles and anti-drone technology, either from existing stocks or through next-generation long-term orders. Details on financing the agreements remain unclear.
Ahead of the visit, Macron’s office emphasized that the deals aim to “put French excellence in the arms industry at the service of Ukraine’s defence” and ensure Kyiv can acquire systems necessary to counter Russian aggression. Zelenskiy is scheduled to attend a briefing by manufacturers, including Dassault, before signing letters of intent and contracts later Monday.
A separate forum will also bring together French and Ukrainian drone companies to explore collaboration in the sector. France, together with Britain, has been promoting a coalition of roughly 30 countries ready to provide troops and resources to Ukraine or its western borders, aimed at ensuring the country receives sufficient long-term military and economic support to deter future Russian attacks.
