Rudolph Angler French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Paris on Wednesday evening, reinforcing France’s commitment to Ukraine’s defense. The meeting set the stage for Thursday’s international summit on Ukraine’s security, where world leaders will discuss long-term military support.
France Expands Military Support to Ukraine
During a joint press conference, Macron announced a new €2 billion military aid package for Ukraine. The assistance includes Milan anti-tank missiles, MICA missiles for Mirage fighter jets, Mistral air defense missiles, drones, armored vehicles, and large quantities of ammunition. The aid package aims to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities amid ongoing tensions with Russia.
Macron emphasized France’s continued support, stating, “Ukraine’s security is Europe’s security. Our commitment remains firm.”
“Coalition of the Willing” Summit
The aid announcement precedes a major summit in Paris involving the “Coalition of the Willing” — a group of nations dedicated to providing long-term security guarantees to Ukraine. Macron said the summit would focus on ensuring Ukraine’s ability to resist future attacks and build a stable defense infrastructure.
No Frontline Deployment for Peacekeepers
Addressing speculation about international peacekeeping forces, Macron ruled out deploying foreign troops to front-line combat zones. Instead, he suggested that peacekeeping forces could be stationed at key military bases or in strategically important towns behind the front lines.
“Our priority is to help Ukraine strengthen its own military capabilities,” Macron explained, adding that peacekeepers, if deployed, would play a supportive rather than offensive role.
Zelenskyy Urges Continued US Support
Zelenskyy highlighted the importance of continued American assistance, particularly in enforcing the recently negotiated Black Sea ceasefire. He referenced recent talks with US officials in Saudi Arabia, saying, “These discussions have unlocked vital aid and intelligence support. We believe the US will play a crucial role in maintaining stability.”
US Brokers Black Sea Ceasefire, Russia Demands Sanctions Relief
The US-brokered Black Sea ceasefire agreement, announced on Tuesday, marked a temporary de-escalation in maritime tensions. However, Russia later conditioned its commitment on the lifting of economic sanctions, particularly those affecting Russian banks and exports.
Moscow’s demand has sparked international debate, with Western leaders resisting calls to ease restrictions.
Macron and Zelenskyy Reject Russian Sanctions Relief
Macron firmly opposed lifting sanctions on Russia, stating, “It is far too early to discuss easing sanctions. Peace through strength does not mean giving in to demands.” He emphasized that sanctions would remain in place until Russia demonstrated full respect for international law.
Zelenskyy echoed this stance, calling for even stronger measures against Moscow. “Sanctions must remain and be reinforced. Only diplomacy backed by strength will be effective in stopping Russian aggression,” he asserted.
Ukraine’s Security and Global Response
As Ukraine continues to receive military aid and diplomatic backing from Western allies, Thursday’s summit will be pivotal in shaping the country’s long-term defense strategy. With growing geopolitical tensions, leaders must balance military support, sanctions enforcement, and diplomatic efforts to maintain stability in the region.