Zelensky says Ukrainian pilots will soon train on French Rafale fighters
President Zelensky announced that Ukrainian airmen will begin Rafale jet training in France as part of a new French defence package.
During telephone talks on Oct. 5, President Volodymyr Zelensky outlined fresh French support that will see Ukrainian pilots receive Rafale fighter training in France, a step toward Kyiv's goal of buying 100 Rafale jets by 2025. The French package, expected soon, follows ongoing assistance such as long-range missiles and intelligence sharing. Zelensky highlighted joint efforts to produce French missiles and aerial bombs within Ukraine and reaffirmed France's commitment to the Freyja anti-ballistic missile project led by the Ukrainian firm Fire Point.
He also mentioned plans to discuss details with President Emmanuel Macron in person. In a parallel call with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Zelensky briefed him on preparations for trilateral negotiations involving the United States and Russia, as well as Ukraine's winter readiness amid Russian strikes on energy infrastructure.
Why it matters
The training will boost Ukraine's air capabilities and deepen French-Ukrainian defence cooperation amid ongoing conflict.
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