Zelensky and Macron hold nearly two-hour call on weapons deliveries and diplomacy
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron spoke for almost two hours on Friday, discussing faster air defence and missile deliveries. The leaders also touched on diplomatic coordination with the US and funding for Ukraine's defence.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a nearly two-hour phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron on 22 August, focused on speeding up deliveries of French equipment and missiles. Zelensky announced the call on social media, as reported by European Pravda citing Ukrainska Pravda.
Zelensky described the conversation as "very good," saying it covered all the key issues, above all the need for air defence. Ukraine expressed appreciation for France's willingness to help coordinate with other partners that hold missiles needed for Patriot systems. The two leaders also discussed French air defence capabilities, with Zelensky briefing Macron on the situation regarding recent strikes and thanking him for condolences over the lives lost.
Missile production licences and diplomacy
Zelensky also thanked Macron for confirming France's readiness to grant licences for missile production. Additionally, the presidents discussed ongoing diplomatic work with partners and communication with the US president's team, agreeing on steps intended to "open up additional diplomatic opportunities."
The two also addressed the need for funding to finance Ukraine's defence this year and next, identifying bilateral defence agreements that require acceleration.
Background
On 24 August, Macron will co-chair a meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing," held in a hybrid format. Some participants, including European Council President António Costa, will attend in person in Kyiv.
