Emmanuel Macron Announces €2 Billion in Military Aid to Ukraine and Discusses an International Contingent

On the eve of a European summit in Paris dedicated to the war in Ukraine, French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Wednesday, March 26, a new €2 billion military aid package for Kyiv. Alongside his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, he reaffirmed France’s commitment to countering Russian aggression and detailed the contents of this support, which includes Milan anti-tank missiles, Mica and Mistral air defense systems, VAB armored vehicles, AMX-10 RC tanks, as well as ammunition and drones. Part of this aid will also be produced directly in Ukraine through industrial partnerships.

Strengthened Military Support and a Diplomatic Initiative

During this press conference at the Élysée Palace, Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his gratitude to France, emphasizing the importance of this support in resisting Moscow. He also mentioned a possible increase in the number of Mirage fighter jets provided by Paris.

Emmanuel Macron also reiterated his proposal for an international contingent, clarifying that these forces would not be deployed on the front lines but could be stationed to ensure lasting peace in the event of a ceasefire. He further called on Russia to accept, like Ukraine, an immediate and unconditional truce, while denouncing Moscow’s new demands to ease international sanctions.

As negotiations under U.S. mediation struggle to yield results, the French president stressed that strengthening Ukraine’s military was the primary security guarantee, insisting on the need to maintain pressure on Russia to reach a resolution to the conflict.