Zelensky in France to seal air defence and warplane deals

French and Ukrainian leaders are set to meet at the Élysée Palace to discuss air defense assistance and joint drone production. Ukraine plans to deploy over 4.5 million drones this year for offensive and defensive operations. Additionally, they will visit the Mont Valérien headquarters, where France and the UK are preparing a multinational force involving 34 countries and Ukraine for potential deployment after a ceasefire. This marks President Zelensky's ninth visit to France.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is visiting Paris for the ninth time since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. His agenda includes signing agreements for new air-defense systems, warplanes, and missiles, aimed at bolstering Ukraine's long-term military efforts. The visit underscores the ongoing commitment of France to support Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to sign agreements in Paris for new air-defense systems, warplanes, and missiles to bolster Kyiv's long-term military efforts. This visit comes amid escalating Russian drone and missile attacks, particularly in the Zaporizhzhia region, where Moscow claims to have made territorial gains. Zelensky's meeting with President Emmanuel Macron is crucial as Ukraine seeks to enhance its defense capabilities against ongoing aggression.

At the inaugural 'Choose France' business summit, French companies are set to announce investments totaling €9.2 billion. This event, backed by the government, aims to support domestic firms amid concerns over the divided parliament's ability to agree on next year's budget. The finance ministry highlighted this summit as a significant step in fostering business confidence in the country.

A Russian attack in the eastern Kharkiv region of Ukraine has resulted in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to ten others. This incident underscores the ongoing violence in the region amid the protracted conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The attack occurred on November 17, 2025, highlighting the continued instability and humanitarian crisis in eastern Ukraine.

US Senator Rand Paul has publicly accused former President Donald Trump of remaining silent regarding a significant corruption scandal in Ukraine. This scandal involves a close associate of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Paul's accusation highlights concerns about Trump's lack of response to issues of corruption that could impact US foreign policy and relations with Ukraine.

Greece has signed a deal to supply liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the US to Ukraine, as the country faces significant energy infrastructure damage due to Russian strikes. The agreement, which will last from December until March 2026, coincides with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's European tour aimed at bolstering Ukraine's energy supply and defense capabilities ahead of winter. This partnership is seen as a crucial step in enhancing regional energy cooperation and ensuring European energy security.