Ukrainian pilots to soon start training on French Rafale jets, Zelensky says
France is preparing fresh defense assistance for Ukraine amid relentless Russian aerial attacks, with a new support package expected "soon," Zelensky revealed after his call with French President Emmanuel Macron.
President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukrainian pilots will soon begin training on French Rafale jets in France, as part of new defense assistance for Ukraine in response to Russian aggression. This follows phone calls with French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. France is Ukraine's key ally in the war against Russian aggression, providing long-range missiles, intelligence support, and now, the opportunity for Ukrainian pilots to train on advanced Rafale aircraft.
The move comes as Ukraine aims to purchase 100 Rafale jets by 2025 to bolster its fleet of Western-made combat aircraft. The Ukrainian president emphasized the importance of localizing the production of French missiles and aerial bombs in Ukraine, aligning with France's commitment to the Freyja anti-ballistic missile defense project.
Discussions with the U.S. and Russia about trilateral talks and Ukraine's winter preparations also took place during these calls.
Written by urgent.news from Kyiv Independent's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
