Ukraine and France agree to strengthen their air defense systems
Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov held talks with French Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs Catherine Vautrin. The parties discussed priority areas of cooperation, including the procurement of radar systems, Aster 30 missiles, and the strengthening of Ukraine’s anti-ballistic defense. The main focus of the conversation was on strengthening air defense and protecting Ukrainian cities as early as this year.
Procurement of radars
"One of the key areas of cooperation is accelerating the procurement of radars. They are a critically important component of air defense and enhance the effectiveness of detecting air threats," Fedorov noted.
Aster-30 missiles
The ministers paid special attention to the Aster-30 missiles—this is one of the urgent priorities for strengthening Ukraine’s air defense.
Ballistic Missile Defense
In addition, the parties focused on developing cooperation to strengthen Ukraine’s anti-ballistic defense.
"Our task is to direct our partners’ resources toward solutions that yield the greatest results for protecting Ukraine’s airspace and strengthening the Defense Forces," Fedorov emphasized.
Joint defense projects
They also discussed the prospects of localizing the production of French weapons in Ukraine and implementing joint defense-industrial projects.
"I am grateful to France for its leadership, consistent support for Ukraine, willingness to work on solutions that strengthen our defense, and for its principled stance on countering the Russian shadow fleet, which continues to finance the war," the Defense Minister added.
The head of Ukraine’s Defense Ministry announced this on social media.
Fedorov discussed the provision of Patriot missiles to Ukraine with the Norwegian Minister of Defense.
The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Russian ambassador for an official meeting and to express a strong protest. This step was prompted by Moscow’s recent statements, which contained direct threats against foreign personnel and diplomatic missions in Ukraine.
In 2025, Russia lost its status as the largest exporter of pipeline natural gas, yielding the top spot to Norway.
