Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelenskiy expressed his hope to see French-supplied Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets in Ukrainian skies soon after French President Emmanuel Macron announced France’s plans to provide them. Zelenskiy has been frustrated with the long delays from Western allies in making key decisions regarding military support for Ukraine in its war against Russian invasion forces. He referenced the recent commemorations for the 80th anniversary of D-Day in Normandy, stating that Ukrainian pilots commanding these fighter jets will demonstrate Europe’s strength against threats of evil.
During a meeting in Paris on Friday, U.S. President Joe Biden reassured Zelenskiy that Washington would not abandon Ukraine and offered an additional $225 million in weapons. France plans to replace its existing Mirage fleet by 2030 with Rafale warplanes, but wants to persuade other countries with Mirages to supply them to Ukraine. Zelenskiy addressed France’s National Assembly, receiving several standing ovations for his resilience in the face of adversity. He emphasized the importance of not losing in the war against evil and stressed that the current situation requires a collective response from allies.
In response to Ukraine’s urgent need for military trainers, Macron announced that France would train, equip, and finance an entire brigade of 4,500 Ukrainians in the immediate term. However, he did not mention sending advisers at the moment, stating that such a decision would be made collectively. Macron underscored the importance of providing a timely response to Ukraine’s request for help, especially in training and mobilizing more personnel quickly. Ukraine’s defense minister sent a formal request to allies for assistance in training on Ukrainian soil, emphasizing the need for swift action.
Military leaders in Ukraine have acknowledged that the battlefield situation on the eastern front has worsened, with a shortage of ammunition and manpower. Despite receiving a long-delayed $60 billion U.S. military package in April, Ukraine is still at risk of being outgunned by Russia due to a shortage of artillery shells worldwide. Analysts predict that Ukraine will face challenges in the coming year as Kyiv’s allies work to ramp up production. Zelenskiy’s visit to Paris sought to secure more support from Western allies, with France committing to sending Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets and training Ukrainian military personnel.
Zelenskiy’s speech to French lawmakers emphasized the importance of collective action against the threat posed by Russia, highlighting the need for continued support from allies. The decision by France to provide fighter jets and train Ukrainian troops reflects a step towards enhancing Ukraine’s military capabilities. Despite facing challenges on the battlefield and delays in receiving support, Zelenskiy remains determined to defend Ukraine against external threats and ensure its security and sovereignty. Macron’s announcement of assistance to Ukraine signals a commitment from France and its allies to bolster the country’s defense capabilities in the face of ongoing conflict in the region.
