In Response to Russian Air Terror, Ukraine Secures 100 French Jets

Ukraine’s “historical” deal for 100 French Rafale jets is a direct and forceful answer to Russia’s significantly escalated campaign of “air terror.” President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has made air defense his number one priority, secured the 10-year pact in Paris as his country faces devastating attacks from Russian missiles, drones, and glide bombs. These strikes have killed civilians and caused rolling blackouts by targeting the power grid ahead of winter.
The 10-year agreement with France is a comprehensive package designed specifically to counter these threats. The 100 Dassault-made Rafales will give Ukraine the power to challenge the Russian jets that launch devastating glide bombs from a safe distance. This offensive capability is a crucial part of Kyiv’s new strategy to stop the attacks at their source.
The pact also includes a massive boost to ground-based defenses. Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine will receive eight French SAMP/T systems, a “world-class” interceptor he praised as “one of the greatest.” These systems will provide a much-needed shield for cities and critical infrastructure that are being relentlessly pounded by Russian missiles.
The deal, which Zelensky called a “special moment,” also includes new radars for earlier threat detection and drones. Significantly, it features a plan for the joint production of interceptor drones, allowing Ukraine to build up its own defense industry to sustain the fight.
This entire defensive upgrade is being financed by European allies, as US aid has been halted by the Trump administration. The EU’s €150 billion SAFE loan fund and a G7-backed mechanism to use revenues from frozen Russian assets will provide the financial muscle, demonstrating Europe’s resolve to arm Ukraine against Russian aggression.