(PARIS, FRANCE) – French President Emmanuel Macron has announced the dispatch of interceptor missiles to Ukraine following a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as Russia continues its campaign of aerial attacks on civilian targets.
Macron said he spoke with Zelenskyy the day after Russia’s double daytime airstrike on a shopping centre in Kryvyi Rih, which resulted in numerous civilian casualties.
“I expressed our horror and deep sorrow,” Macron wrote on X.
He noted that Russia continues and escalates its aggression with strikes on Kyiv and Kryvyi Rih. “By systematically attacking civilians and choosing intimidation and escalation, Russia is likely seeking to project strength, but above all it is demonstrating its weakness,” Macron said.
Macron emphasised the importance of providing Ukraine with the resources necessary to defend its airspace and prevent further aggression. He informed Zelenskyy about the strengthening of French support, including the dispatch of interceptor missiles and continued cooperation under the Air Defence Coalition framework established in Paris on 13th July and the declaration of intent signed on 17th November 2025.
“It is critically important that all countries with available resources also join these efforts,” Macron said.
The French president called for continued pressure on Russia. “We must also continue to increase pressure on Russia as long as it chooses to reject a ceasefire and peace,” he said.
The two leaders also reviewed preparations for the upcoming meeting of the Coalition of the Willing, scheduled for Monday, which coincides with Ukraine’s Independence Day.
“We reviewed our mobilisation to achieve the peace that the Ukrainian people legitimately seek, with respect for their rights and with all the necessary security guarantees for Ukraine and our continent,” Macron said.
Macron concluded with a message of solidarity: “Russia is trying to break Ukraine through terror: it will not succeed. United in our support for Ukraine, we will ensure the victory of law and justice over force.”
The discussions between Zelenskyy and Macron covered air defence, missile supplies and financing for Ukraine’s defence.
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