Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a “historic” military agreement with France that will enhance Ukraine’s combat aviation and air defense capabilities. The deal is expected to be signed in Paris on 17 November during Zelenskyy’s meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron.
Ukraine to sign key military aviation deal with France
On 16 November, Zelenskyy shared the news in his morning address, saying the agreement will strengthen Ukraine’s Air Force and airspace protection.
"We have also prepared a historic agreement with France. It will significantly strengthen our combat aviation, our air defense, and our other defense capabilities. According to the visit schedule, this will happen on Monday. The visit has good substance — it is something that truly helps Ukraine defend itself and achieve our goals, our tasks," the President said.
Militarnyi notes that the upcoming pact follows earlier reports that Ukraine might receive Rafale fighter jets. While there has been no official confirmation, the manufacturer has stated its readiness to cooperate. The total number of aircraft and the timeline for deliveries also remain unclear.
Notably, in 2021, French President Emmanuel Macron had reportedly planned to offer Rafales to Ukraine during his visit to Kyiv, but the discussion later stalled, and it is unknown whether those talks ever resumed.
Zelenskyy previously stated on 28 October that Ukraine is exploring three parallel fighter jet discussions with Sweden, France, and the United States. The platforms under consideration are the Swedish Gripen, American F-16, and French Rafale.
Ukraine also seals energy import deal with Greece amid winter threats
In the same address, Zelenskyy confirmed Ukraine had prepared an agreement with Greece to supply natural gas during the winter months, which follows Russian attacks targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
He said Ukraine had secured nearly €2 billion in financing to compensate for losses in domestic gas production after Russia's attacks that destroyed most of gas fields in Ukraine. Funding is being provided by the Ukrainian government, European partners, EU-backed banks, Ukrainian financial institutions, and Norway. Negotiations with US partners are also ongoing to ensure complete financial coverage.
The gas will be imported through various routes, including via Poland, and Ukraine is working to secure long-term contracts with Azerbaijan as well.
Spain to host another key visit as Ukraine pushes for missile defense systems
Zelenskyy also previewed a visit to Spain scheduled for 18 November, calling it a “result-oriented” trip. He noted that Spain is joining a coalition of countries contributing to initiatives that offer real support to Ukraine.
