France to deliver interceptor missiles to Ukraine after new Russian strikes; Macron promises to accelerate deliveries and provide licenses for missile production

French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to deliver interceptor missiles to Ukraine as the country faces a critical shortage of air defenses following recent Russian attacks. In a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Macron emphasized the urgency of enhancing Ukraine's military capabilities.¹²³⁵

"It is crucial to provide Ukraine with all the necessary means to defend its skies and thwart this aggression," Macron stated on X, highlighting the importance of the new military support. The discussions included plans to accelerate the delivery of the Italo-French SAMP/T-NG missile defence system, which is expected to be capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, although its arrival is not anticipated before spring next year.

Zelenskiy expressed gratitude for Macron's commitment, stating, "Thank you for confirming your readiness to provide licenses for the production of missiles." This collaboration is part of a broader initiative, with a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing scheduled for Monday, coinciding with Ukraine's independence day. The coalition aims to strengthen support for Ukraine and increase pressure on Russia to cease its invasion.⁴

The meeting will be co-chaired by Macron, alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and British Prime Minister Andy Burnham, with around 10 leaders expected to attend in Kyiv, according to an EU official.