French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Paris on Wednesday night. The meeting took place as Ukraine’s war with Russia continues. Macron used this visit to show strong support for Ukraine.
He also shared big news. France will send €2 billion worth of military help to Ukraine. This will include missiles, drones, and other equipment. Macron said this support will help Ukraine stay safe now and in the future.
France Gives Missiles, Vehicles, and Drones
Macron explained what France will send to Ukraine. The list is long and includes many tools to help Ukraine fight.
France will send Milan anti-tank missiles. These missiles can stop enemy tanks. It will also send MICA missiles. These are used by Mirage fighter jets. They can defend the sky.
Ukraine will also get Mistral air defense missiles. These can stop planes and drones. On top of this, France will send drones, armored vehicles, and ammunition.
Macron said, “We want to help Ukraine now. But we also want to help them build a strong army for the years to come.”
Big Meeting on Ukraine’s Defense
The meeting between Macron and Zelenskyy happened before a big summit on Thursday morning. Many world leaders met to talk about Ukraine’s defense.
Macron said that the goal is to help Ukraine build its own strong army. The leaders want Ukraine to be safe, even when the war ends.
The group at the summit is called the “Coalition of the Willing.” They have been helping Ukraine since the start of the war. They send weapons, money, and food. They want Ukraine to win the war and stay free.
No Peacekeepers on Front Lines
There were questions about whether France would send troops to Ukraine. Macron cleared this up.
He said that France will not send peacekeepers to fight. Instead, they may go to towns or army bases after the war ends.
Macron said, “Our job is to help Ukraine win. We are not sending troops to the front lines.”
He added that peacekeepers may help keep order later. But right now, Ukraine’s army must stay strong and defend itself.
Zelenskyy Wants US to Keep Helping
During the event, Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke about the help Ukraine is getting from the United States. He said that talks with the US had taken place in Saudi Arabia. These talks helped unlock more aid.
Zelenskyy said, “We hope America will keep helping Ukraine. We need their support to keep the ceasefire in place.”
The ceasefire was announced earlier this week. The US helped arrange it. Both Ukraine and Russia agreed to stop fighting in some areas.
Russia Wants Sanctions Removed
After the ceasefire news, Russia made demands. Moscow said it would only follow the ceasefire if sanctions were lifted. These sanctions target Russian banks and trade.
The ceasefire mostly covers the Black Sea area. This is an important region for both Ukraine and Russia. Many battles have taken place there.
The deal is seen as a small step toward peace. But many leaders warned that Russia’s demands may delay true peace.
Macron and Zelenskyy Say No to Sanction Relief
Macron spoke firmly about sanctions. He said it is too soon to talk about lifting them. Macron said, “Peace comes through strength, not by removing pressure.”
He explained that Russia must follow international law first. Only then can talks about sanctions begin.
Zelenskyy agreed with Macron. He said, “Sanctions must stay. They should even get stronger.”
He added that only tough actions will lead to real peace.
Europe Stands with Ukraine
The Paris meeting showed that Europe still stands with Ukraine. Macron’s promise of €2 billion in aid is clear proof.
The leaders at the summit also agreed on one thing. Helping Ukraine is not just about today’s war. It is about making sure Ukraine stays safe in the years ahead.
The summit also sent a strong message to Russia. Europe and its allies will keep helping Ukraine. They will not stop until there is real peace.