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French President Emmanuel Macron announced the transfer of French Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets to Ukraine and the training of additional Ukrainian military personnel as part of a ‘new cooperation’ with Kyiv, Le Figaro reports.
‘Tomorrow we will start a new cooperation and announce the transfer of Mirage 2000–5 fighters,’ Macron said, adding that the aircraft ‘will allow Ukraine to defend its land and airspace.’
To prepare pilots to fly the Mirage 2000-5, France will organise six-month pilot training courses starting this summer, Macron said.
In addition, Paris will help train a 4,500-strong Ukrainian brigade, which Macron stressed is ‘not an escalation factor.’
France also supports Ukraine’s candidacy for membership in the European Union, French President Emmanuel Macron said.
“France has played a leading role in supporting Ukraine’s role as an EU candidate. We will continue to do so. This is an opportunity for Ukraine to carry out all the reforms necessary to join the European Union. But this will not happen overnight,” Macron said.
On Friday, 7 June, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will meet with French President Emmanuel Macron and a number of other officials in Paris.
The two sides are expected to sign two agreements providing Ukraine with €650 million in loans and grants to support local authorities and critical infrastructure, including energy, which is targeted by Russia.
Read also: US weapons now help Ukrainians stop Russians on border, they will not strike Moscow, – Biden
