The international delegation, headed by Ana Lucía Bueno, ICRC Public Health Coordinator, and Sujit Panda, Head of the Physical Rehabilitation…
President Zelenskyy met with France’s Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs, Catherine Vautrin, who visited Ukraine for the first time since her appointment in October last year.
This was reported by the President’s Office.
The meeting focused on military assistance, strengthening Ukrainian air defense with systems and missiles, and expanding Ukraine’s aviation fleet with French Mirage and Rafale aircraft.
Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s appreciation for the high level of relations with France and support from President Emmanuel Macron, the French government, and the French people.
He informed Vautrin about the consequences of Russia’s overnight strike, and both sides discussed what is needed to strengthen protection and resilience.
The President highlighted the importance of receiving SAMP/T systems and French Mirage aircraft to reinforce Ukraine’s air defense amid constant massive Russian attacks.
“Mirage aircraft are already part of Ukraine’s air defense system, destroying Shaheds that Russia uses daily. We count on continued support in this direction. We are grateful for signing the agreement on the future of Ukraine’s modern aviation — including Rafale aircraft, high-quality French-made jets. We also count on a new generation of SAMP/T systems”, — Zelenskyy said.
He stressed that the rapid delivery of air-defense systems will strengthen Ukraine’s air shield. Ukraine is also interested in accelerating joint projects with France within European initiatives, especially SAFE.
Catherine Vautrin assured continued French support. She highlighted successful cooperation with Ukraine’s Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, including modernization of French-provided radars and collaboration in drone production.
“France will honor its commitments regarding Rafale. As for deliveries, they will proceed as established within the SAFE program. We will remain your devoted partner, defending your cause and involving the wider European defense-industrial complex to strengthen our joint capabilities and European sovereignty”, — she said.
The meeting also addressed sanctions policy against Russia. Zelenskyy noted France’s bold step in detaining a Russian shadow-fleet tanker and emphasized the importance of other countries joining similar efforts and introducing legislative changes to fully block Russian tankers.
