France and Ukraine Sign Major Arms Deal Including Rafale Fighter Jets

French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the Elysée Palace in Paris. The two leaders signed a significant agreement for France to supply military equipment to Ukraine. The deal includes the transfer of French Rafale fighter jets. These aircraft are among France's most advanced combat planes. Following the signing, both presidents held a joint press conference. The agreement marks a major step in France's military support for Ukraine. Analyst Michael Benhamou, Director at OPEWI Europe’s War Institute, provided his expert assessment of the new security pact.