On Thursday, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France is planning to sell Mirage fighter jets to Ukraine, which has been embroiled in war, by the end of this year. This move comes as a significant development for Ukraine’s military capability and demonstrates France’s commitment to supporting its ally in the region.
On the 80th anniversary of D-Day, which played a crucial role in turning the tide of World War II and marking the beginning of the end of Nazi totalitarianism in Europe, Macron made an announcement. The historic day saw the landing of U.S. and allied troops on the beaches of Normandy, France in 1944, and Macron chose this occasion to make his statement.
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During an interview with broadcaster TF1 in the northern city of Caen, French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that a new cooperation will be launched tomorrow, along with the announcement of the transfer of Mirage 2000 [jets] to Ukraine. This move is aimed at helping Ukraine protect its skies. The announcement coincides with the official visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
According to Macron, his plan is to train up to 4,500 Ukrainian pilots on Mirage 2000 fighter jets in France. The training will take place over a six-month period and will commence as early as this summer.
Although he did not disclose the exact number of fighters, Macron has expressed his intention to send troops to Ukraine. The defense ministry has not provided any additional information about the plans. Macron is scheduled to hold a private meeting with Zelensky on Friday at the Elysée Palace, where he will give him further details.
According to Macron, Ukraine has requested military instructors from its Western allies to come and train its troops on its own territory in response to the increasing need for soldiers.
According to Zelensky, the situation on the battlefield is tilting in Russia’s favor, and Ukraine requires international assistance in bolstering its military forces.
Macron revealed that the Ukrainian president and his minister of defence sent an official letter to all allies 48 hours ago, requesting for quicker training on their soil. “We need you to train us quicker and that you do this on our soil,” they said.
France has shifted its approach towards Ukraine by deciding to send Mirage fighter jets, which is a departure from its previous stance. Previously, France had recommended that Kyiv should acquire F-16s, as they are more commonly used than the Mirage fighter jets.
Leaders and veterans from allied nations gathered to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day, providing the perfect setting for Macron to make his announcement about fighter jets. During the event, U.S. President Joe Biden and Macron drew parallels between the fight against Nazism in World War II and Ukraine’s current battle against the Russian invasion.
On Friday, Zelensky’s itinerary includes meetings with defense manufacturers, as well as with Macron and the French National Assembly.
In a statement made to France 24, Macron expressed that the decision signifies a shift towards a more collaborative approach with Kyiv.
He stated that a collaborative decision will be made with our partners, and we will act accordingly.
