KABUL: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks with French President Emmanuel Macron on strengthening Kyiv’s defenses against ongoing Russian attacks, with a focus on enhancing Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.
According to Turkey’s state-run Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy said the discussions centered on reinforcing Ukraine’s missile defense systems.
The Ukrainian leader said Macron expressed readiness for France to support Kyiv in developing anti-ballistic missile capabilities and strengthening its overall air defense network.
“France is ready to work on ballistic missile defense capabilities. This is a strong decision and an important step,” Zelenskyy said.
He added that Ukraine’s bid to join the European Union was also discussed, with both sides stressing the need to begin negotiations across all sectors in the near future.
Ukraine’s air defense forces have played a critical role during the war in countering waves of Russian drone attacks. However, Kyiv has repeatedly sought greater support from Western allies to improve its ability to intercept Russian ballistic missiles.
Macron pledges support for Ukraine’s anti-ballistic missile systems
