Ukrainian president arrives in Paris for talks on defence, strategic cooperation

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Paris on November 17, where he was welcomed by French President Emmanuel Macron ahead of expected discussions aimed at strengthening Ukrainian-French cooperation.

The two leaders will focus on bilateral collaboration in the energy, economic, and defence sectors, as well as progress in preparing security guarantees for Ukraine under the “Coalition of the Willing” framework, Caliber.Az reports, citing Ukrainian media.

Unnamed sources reported that Zelenskyy and Macron are expected to sign agreements on air defence systems, missiles, and a 10-year strategic aviation deal, which would include the provision of advanced Dassault Rafale fighter jets.

Paris has remained a key ally of Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, providing military aid including Mirage 2000 fighter jets, artillery, and long-range missiles.

Ahead of his visit on November 16, Zelenskyy described the upcoming agreements as a milestone, stating, “A historic deal with France in Paris to strengthen our combat aviation and air defence.”

The Paris trip forms part of Zelenskyy’s broader tour of European allies aimed at bolstering Kyiv’s support ahead of the winter months and amid continued Russian strikes on Ukraine’s power infrastructure.

On November 16, the Ukrainian president visited Greece, where he finalized a deal on a new gas supply route, along with agreements on financing gas imports. Zelenskyy is also scheduled to visit Spain on November 18 for discussions on enhancing Ukraine’s air defence capabilities.

By Vafa Guliyeva