President of Ukraine

President of Ukraine Meets with Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France

21 July 2025 - 15:30

President of Ukraine Meets with Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, Jean-Noël Barrot, who took part in the annual meeting of Ukrainian ambassadors.

The Head of State thanked the Minister for his visit, which demonstrates support for Ukraine. This morning, Jean-Noël Barrot, in particular, visited one of the Kyiv districts damaged during last night’s massive Russian shelling.

“We are grateful to President Macron for his support, leadership within the Coalition of the Willing, and assistance with what Ukraine has needed since the beginning of this war. Two days ago, we had a conversation with him and agreed on some important decisions,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

The President expressed special gratitude for the Mirage aircraft, which have significantly strengthened the capabilities of the strike aviation, primarily in destroying Russian drones and cruise missiles.

During the meeting, the parties discussed France’s defense support, especially the critical need for air defense systems, as well as the training of Ukrainian warriors and the outcomes of meetings in the Ramstein format. Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that our state is ready to expand joint defense production and commended the decision of French companies to begin manufacturing drones on Ukrainian territory.

Among other important topics discussed was the strengthening of sanctions against Russia for the sake of peace. The Head of State welcomed the adoption of the EU’s 18th sanctions package against the Russian Federation, including the lowering of the price cap on Russian oil.

“We need to keep up our efforts to help you protect the Ukrainian people and increase pressure on Russia to achieve a ceasefire. This will allow real peace negotiations to begin that will lead to a just and lasting peace,” noted the French Minister for Foreign Affairs.

Additionally, the parties discussed the negotiation process regarding Ukraine’s accession to the EU. The President acknowledged France’s and partners’ efforts to develop a mechanism that will enable the opening of the first negotiation cluster.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Jean-Noël Barrot for his personal stance on supporting Ukraine and Ukrainians and awarded him the Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise, III class.