Zelenskyy hails historic defence deal with France

Zelenskyy hails historic defence deal with France
Anadolu Agency

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Monday that his country will purchase 100 Dassault Rafale fighter jets from France. The deal forms part of a broader defence cooperation agreement signed with French President Emmanuel Macron.

Zelenskyy said the agreement is aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s military and will come into effect in 2026, lasting for ten years. Under the deal, Ukraine will also receive “very powerful” French radars and eight SAMP/T air defence systems.

The president emphasised that France’s move is a significant step towards ensuring real and guaranteed security in Europe. He added that he and Macron had also met with defence companies to discuss specific aspects of technological cooperation.

During the visit, Ukrainian state railway company Ukrzaliznytsia signed an agreement with French manufacturer Alstom SA to purchase 55 new electric locomotives to support Ukraine’s logistics. Zelenskyy also thanked Macron for a new defence package due at the end of the year, which he said would further strengthen Ukraine.

Zelenskyy visited France following a trip to Athens, Greece, and is scheduled to travel to Spain the following day.

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