Zelensky, Macron Agree on Supply of French Equipment and Missiles

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron held a lengthy discussion on August 22, focusing on bolstering Ukraine's air defenses, weaponry deliveries, and diplomatic initiatives. The core of their conversation centered around Ukraine's requirement for extra air defense weapons, specifically Patriot systems' missiles.

Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Macron's readiness to collaborate with allies possessing the requisite interceptors. The duo also delved into France's air defense technologies. Zelenskyy furnished Macron with an update on the ramifications of Russian assaults on Ukraine. "We reached an agreement to expedite the delivery of the latest French gear and missiles.

Thank you for affirming your preparedness to grant licenses for missile manufacturing," Zelenskyy communicated on social media. In addition to defense matters, they deliberated upon diplomatic efforts with varying allies, including discussions with the U.S. president's team. They outlined paths that might unveil further diplomatic openings.

Moreover, they touched upon the necessity of funds to finance Ukraine's defense for the current and upcoming years, identifying defense agreements within their bilateral relations that warrant accelerated action. In June, then-Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov disclosed that Ukraine was engaging with France for a license to manufacture long-range SCALP cruise missiles.

By June, the two nations were navigating legal and technical hurdles tied to the technology transfer. In February, France informed that it would dispatch Mirage 2000 aircraft to Ukraine. Furthermore, they inked a letter of intent to co-produce arms within both countries.