On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed hope that French-supplied Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets would soon be seen in Ukrainian skies. This announcement came after French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed France’s plan to provide these jets to Ukraine.
Zelenskyy has often voiced his frustration over the slow pace at which Western allies are making decisions regarding military support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian invasion forces.
During a speech to French lawmakers, Zelenskyy referenced the Normandy skies, alluding to the 80th anniversary of D-Day, and expressed his confidence that Ukrainian pilots would soon command these advanced jets.
Macron also drew parallels with D-Day, assuring that Europe’s support for Ukraine would not falter. Although he did not specify the number of Dassault-made Mirages to be provided, he confirmed that the planes and pilot training would be delivered by the end of the year. Macron emphasized the importance of maintaining robust support for Ukraine.
Following a meeting with Zelenskyy in Paris, US President Joe Biden affirmed that the United States would not abandon Ukraine. Biden announced a new $225 million weapons package for Ukraine, reinforcing American support.
The Mirage 2000-5 is a versatile, single-engine jet fighter. France plans to replace its Mirage fleet with Rafale warplanes by 2030 and aims to encourage other countries with Mirages to supply them to Ukraine as well.
Addressing France’s National Assembly, Zelenskyy received several standing ovations. He reiterated that Russian President Vladimir Putin cannot win the war and that Ukraine cannot afford to lose. Zelenskiyy emphasized that the war cannot end with the current frontlines, as there are no boundaries for evil.
Before Zelenskyy’s visit, diplomats hinted that France might send military trainers to Ukraine to help quickly mobilize more troops. Macron confirmed that France would train, equip, and finance a brigade of 4,500 Ukrainians.
However, he did not announce the deployment of military advisers, suggesting such a decision would require a collective agreement among allies.
Macron mentioned that Ukraine’s defense minister had officially requested more training support. Macron stressed the urgency of responding to Ukraine’s needs, particularly for rapid training on Ukrainian soil.
Ukraine’s military leaders have acknowledged worsening conditions on the eastern front. After two years of war, Ukraine’s ammunition and manpower are depleted, and a failed counter-offensive last year has affected morale.
Despite a significant US military package approved in April, a global shortage of artillery shells means Ukraine may continue to face challenges against Russian forces for the rest of the year as allies work to increase production.
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