Mykhailo Fedorov holds talks with Catherine Vautrin, Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs of France, on strengthening Ukraine’s air defence and aviation capabilities

Minister of Defence of Ukraine Mykhailo Fedorov held talks with Catherine Vautrin, Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs of France.

He thanked France for its many years of consistent cooperation and its strong contribution to the development of Ukraine’s air defence and aviation capabilities.

“This partnership is already contributing to the protection of Ukraine’s skies,” the Minister of Defence of Ukraine stated.

Mykhailo Fedorov noted that the two countries are currently cooperating across a range of areas.

This includes, in particular, measures to strengthen air defence and address emerging technological threats.

“We are counting on ammunition supplies from France — both for SAMP/T and Crotale systems, as well as for long-range capabilities. I am grateful for the readiness to deliver additional French-manufactured missiles in the near term,” Mykhailo Fedorov noted.

Another line of cooperation concerns the transfer of Mirage 2000-5 aircraft to Ukraine.

Ukraine is expecting additional aircraft deliveries, which would significantly strengthen its air capabilities.

A third priority is countering russia’s shadow fleet.

The Minister of Defence of Ukraine underscored France’s principled stance on limiting the activities of russia’s shadow fleet, noting that cutting the enemy’s resources is critical to reducing its capacity to finance the war.

“I also invited Catherine Vautrin to visit Ukraine. We are prepared to elevate our cooperation to a new level, including in data sharing and joint analytical efforts. I am grateful to France for its systematic support, leadership, and clear stance,” Mykhailo Fedorov concluded.