During the visit to Kyiv by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, key negotiations took place regarding further cooperation between Ukraine and France. The discussions focused on issues of defense interaction, financing, post-destruction recovery, and a joint sanctions policy against the Russian Federation.
This is reported by Business • Media
Strengthening Defense Partnership and Security Challenges
Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko emphasized that the French delegation witnessed life in Kyiv following the nighttime attacks, which particularly highlights the need to strengthen the air defense system, supply drones, and fighter jets. She stressed the necessity for an immediate increase in military assistance and underscored the importance of transitioning to joint production of defense products on Ukrainian territory.
“The French colleagues saw how Kyiv lives after the nighttime attacks. And this greatly strengthens the conversation about drones, air defense, and fighter jets. They are needed right now. So one of the topics is increasing military assistance and transitioning to joint production in Ukraine,” she emphasized.
New Agreements: Supporting the Economy and Strategic Development Directions
The outcome of the negotiations was the signing of two important declarations between Ukraine and France. The first declaration provides for the establishment of a new fund amounting to 200 million euros, which will come into effect in 2026. This fund will support critical infrastructure and ensure economic stability in Ukraine. The demand for the previous cooperation program exceeded the budget by 200%, indicating high interest from both Ukrainian and French businesses in joint projects.
The second declaration concerns the preparation of an intergovernmental agreement on strategic cooperation in the areas of defense, energy, digital technologies, and critical minerals. In addition to investments, it envisions the exchange of modern technologies, expanding cooperation, and opening broader opportunities for access to European Union markets.