Volodymyr ZelenskyKaja KallasEmmanuel MacronVolodymyr ZelenskyyEuropean Union

Macron says France to ramp up Ukraine support with new interceptor missiles after Kryvyi Rih attack; Zelenskyy agrees to accelerate delivery

French President Emmanuel Macron announced increased support for Ukraine, including new interceptor missiles, following a deadly Russian attack in Kryvyi Rih. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy confirmed the agreement to expedite the delivery of military equipment during a two-hour phone call between the leaders.

politico.eu politico.eu+1 source22 August 2026 · 23:41 UTC
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French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Saturday that France will enhance its military support for Ukraine by delivering new interceptor missiles, a response to a devastating Russian attack in Kryvyi Rih that killed at least 16 people and injured 130, including 23 children.

In a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Macron expressed his "horror" and "deep concern" over the attack, emphasizing the need for robust air defense. He stated, "It is crucial to provide Ukraine with all the necessary means to defend its airspace and thwart this aggression," and confirmed the delivery of interceptors.

Zelenskyy acknowledged the agreement to expedite the delivery of French military equipment, thanking Macron for his commitment to provide licenses for missile production. The two leaders also discussed diplomatic efforts with the United States, aiming to open additional opportunities for support.

Macron, alongside leaders from Germany and the U.K., is set to co-host a Coalition of the Willing meeting in Kyiv to further discuss ongoing support for Ukraine against Russian aggression. The meeting will include around 10 leaders, with some participating remotely, as they strategize on enhancing military aid and diplomatic relations.

The attack on Kryvyi Rih has drawn widespread condemnation, with EU's top diplomat Kaja Kallas labeling it "terror by design."6

Key Insight
“The attack on Kryvyi Rih killed at least 16 people and injured 130, including 23 children, prompting EU diplomat Kaja Kallas to call it 'terror by design.' Macron and Zelenskyy also discussed diplomatic steps with Washington, and a Coalition of the Willing meeting is set for Monday in Kyiv.”
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CuriousCats studied:
1
politico.eupolitico.eu
“BRUSSELS — French President Emmanuel Macron said on Saturday that Paris will strengthen its support for Ukraine after Russia’s in Kryvyi Rih on Friday.”
politico.eu →
2
Euronews.comEuronews.com
“French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Saturday that France would deliver new interceptor missiles to Kyiv following a major Russian attack on a shopping centre in Kryvyi Rih in central Ukraine.”
Euronews.com →
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