In a significant move to bolster Ukraine’s military capabilities, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron signed a letter of intent on Monday, paving the way for Ukraine to purchase up to 100 Rafale fighter jets from France. The agreement, announced by both the Ukrainian Embassy and the French president’s office, underscores Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its defense systems amid relentless Russian aggression. While specific details of the deal remain undisclosed, the document highlights Ukraine’s consideration of acquiring French defense equipment, including the advanced Rafale jets. This marks Zelenskyy’s ninth visit to Paris since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, as Ukraine braces for another winter under Russian bombardment of its energy infrastructure and other critical targets. Earlier in the day, Macron and Zelenskyy toured an air base on the outskirts of Paris before meeting with representatives of a multinational force, referred to as the ‘coalition of the willing,’ which France and Britain are spearheading with over 30 nations to enforce a potential ceasefire in Ukraine. Zelenskyy expressed optimism about the deal, calling it a ‘historic agreement’ to enhance Ukraine’s combat aviation and air defense capabilities. This development follows Ukraine’s recent defense agreements, including a pact with Sweden to explore the purchase of up to 150 Gripen fighter jets and the acquisition of American-made F-16s and French Mirages.
Ukraine signs a letter of intent to buy up to 100 Rafale warplanes from France
