France is strengthening its defense cooperation with Ukraine and the integration of their defense industries

French Minister for European Affairs Benjamin Haddad is traveling to Ukraine for talks with representatives of defense companies on Monday, March 30, 2026. 

The official emphasized that the war in the Middle East must not distract allies from Russian aggression, which carried out approximately 1,500 attacks and launched over 3,000 drones last week. The EU’s priorities remain the approval of a $90 billion loan based on the principle of European preference and the adoption of the 20th package of sanctions against Russia.

During his visit, Haddad plans to visit French startups in the drone and reconnaissance sectors that are already collaborating with Ukrainian specialists on intercepting drones. France has expressed interest in integrating its defense-industrial base with Ukrainian units and utilizing advanced technologies to combat UAVs. The visit is expected to help boost weapons production capacity for the Ukrainian army’s needs. In this way, Paris is reaffirming its strategic commitment to long-term military support for Kyiv and the strengthening of shared security.

It was previously reported that France is transferring Mirage 2000 fighter jets to Ukraine. Before the transfer, they will also be equipped with new hardware.

France will not simply transfer old Mirage 2000 aircraft to Ukraine—they will be modernized to ensure they have an advantage in the air, said Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.