During the Russian ballistic missile attack on Kyiv, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a telephone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron. The leaders discussed Ukraine’s need for additional air defence packages, the threat of further missile strikes in the coming days, and the risks of easing restrictions on the export of Russian petroleum products.
Briefly about the main points
- The conversation between the presidents took place during Russia’s ballistic missile attack on Kyiv.
- Kyiv has emphasised the need for ballistic missile interception capabilities.
- Zelenskyy warned of an increased risk of further attacks in the coming days.
- Russia’s revenue from the export of petroleum products was discussed separately.
- Ukraine and France are preparing for further contacts and diplomatic coordination.
The attack was preceded by strikes on energy infrastructure
Earlier that day, according to Zelensky, Russian troops used jet-powered strike drones against energy infrastructure, and subsequently attacked the capital ballistic missiles. Ukrainian air defences intercepted some of the missiles.
The President thanked France for its support and stated that there was a need for additional packages AIR DEFENCE is clear to Ukraine. Kyiv is continuing negotiations with its partners regarding air defence systems and the associated ammunition.
Ukraine is focusing on intercepting ballistic missiles
Zelenskyy stated Macron regarding the particular danger posed by new Russian missile attacks in the coming days. In his view, the international response should combine the strengthening of Ukraine’s air defence with increased political and economic pressure on Moscow.
Ballistic missile interception systems are of particular importance for the defence of cities. Back in September, the presidents had already discussed the possibility of supplying Ukraine with additional Franco-Italian systems SAMP/T and missiles for them through European Union funding mechanisms. The countries are also working on joint projects in the field of missile defence.
Kyiv has warned against Russia’s revenue from petroleum products
Among the topics discussed were the consequences of easing sanctions against Russian petroleum products. The day before, the US President Donald Trump announced an agreement allowing the resumption of Russian diesel fuel supplies to the international market. The US administration explained the decision as being driven by the need to stabilise fuel prices.
The Ukrainian authorities have criticised this move on the grounds that it could generate additional revenue for Russia. Zelenskyy believes that Moscow could use the proceeds from energy exports to purchase weapons components, manufacture missiles and drones, and fund the war. The parties discussed possible joint diplomatic action.
Kyiv and Paris will continue to coordinate their efforts
Following the conversation, the presidents agreed to continue substantive coordination and preparations for future meetings. France is Ukraine’s partner in the field of air defence and has previously confirmed its readiness to facilitate the supply of equipment and missiles, and to develop joint defence programmes.
No specific number of new air defence systems or delivery dates was announced following this telephone conversation.
