Volodymyr Zelensky to Visit France Next Week

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Wednesday, March 19, that he would travel to France next week for several meetings. He also emphasized his close relationship with French President Emmanuel Macron, stating that they speak “once a day.”

A Strong Bond Between Kyiv and Paris

During a video press conference, the Ukrainian leader was briefly interrupted by a call from President Macron. “I just spoke with President Macron, with Emmanuel. We talk often, once a day,” he said before confirming his upcoming visit to France.

Zelensky’s last visit to Paris was on December 7, 2024, for the reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral. On that occasion, he was received at the Élysée Palace alongside Donald Trump. The most recent official exchange between the two leaders took place on March 17 and was described as “very constructive” by the Ukrainian president.

Military Support and Energy Issues

During his speech, Volodymyr Zelensky also revealed that Ukraine had received “several” additional F-16 fighter jets but declined to specify the exact number. These American-designed aircraft began arriving in 2024 after a long wait. Since the start of the Russian invasion in February 2022, Kyiv had repeatedly called for the delivery of F-16s to strengthen its defense.

The Ukrainian president also discussed a U.S. proposal regarding the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which is currently under Russian occupation. Washington reportedly suggested a potential American oversight of certain Ukrainian energy infrastructures, an idea that the White House described as “the best possible protection and support” for these strategic facilities.

This visit to France comes amid ongoing diplomatic and military tensions as Ukraine continues to seek support from its allies in the face of Russian aggression.