Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot discussed increasing military aid to Ukraine, joint arms production, and the launch of new economic programs, including a EUR 200 million support fund.
Svyrydenko announced this on Telegram, according to Ukrinform.
“I met with Jean-Noël Barrot, the French Minister of Foreign Affairs. He is on an official visit to Kyiv today. We had a substantive discussion about weapons, finances, reconstruction, and sanctions,” she said.
Svyrydenko noted that her French colleagues saw how Kyiv lives after night attacks: “And this greatly reinforces the conversation about drones, air defense, and fighter jets. They are needed right now. So one of the topics is increasing military aid and transitioning to joint production in Ukraine.”
Separately, government officials discussed funding for the drone program in 2025, as Ukraine is looking for ways to speed up procurement and activate other sources of funding.
The parties also discussed sanctions pressure on Russia.
“The French side shared its thoughts on possible approaches to forming new packages. In particular, regarding a more flexible format linked to specific goals and time frames. I thank France for its initiative, support, and involvement in real work,” Svyrydenko added.
In turn, Economy Minister Oleksii Sobolev signed two declarations with the French side: the first on the creation of a new EUR 200 million fund to support critical infrastructure and the economy from 2026.
“Last year, demand for the first program exceeded its budget threefold—applications for EUR 750 million with EUR 200 million available. This is a good sign: Ukrainian and French businesses see common projects,” Svyrydenko emphasized.
Ukraine and France also signed a document on the preparation of an intergovernmental agreement on strategic projects: defense, energy, digitalization, and critical minerals.
According to the prime minister, this is not only about investment, but also about cooperation, technology, and access to European markets.
As reported by Ukrinform, French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot arrived in Ukraine for a two-day visit.
Source: PM Svyrydenko holds meeting with Barrot on military aid, joint arms production and reconstruction
