Macron Promises Air Defense Missiles to Ukraine Following Deadly Russian Strikes on Kryvyi Rih

The commitment follows a telephone conversation between Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. During the call, the French leader expressed his condemnation of the strikes in southern Ukraine and detailed plans to reinforce military cooperation between Paris and Kyiv.

Macron Condemns Kryvyi Rih Strikes and Escalation

The Russian missile attack on Kryvyi Rih struck civilian areas, triggering widespread condemnation from international leaders. Speaking on the messaging platform X, Macron stated that the assault demonstrated an ongoing strategy of intimidation.

“By systematically targeting civilians, and choosing intimidation and escalation, Russia is likely seeking to project strength, but above all signs an admission of weakness,” Macron wrote. He emphasized the necessity of supplying Ukraine with the tools required to secure its airspace.

According to the French presidency, the newly promised interceptors tie directly into previous bilateral and multilateral agreements designed to bolster Ukrainian defense capabilities against incoming ballistic threats.

Expansion of the Anti-Ballistic Coalition

The latest military assistance stems from framework agreements established under the Anti-Ballistic Coalition. France and its international allies launched the coalition in Paris on July 13, creating a dedicated defense structure aimed at expanding Ukraine’s anti-missile architecture.

The initiative includes joint development efforts for a new anti-missile system designed to function as a more cost-effective alternative to American-made Patriot batteries. Ukrainian forces have experienced critical shortages of Patriot interceptors while confronting sustained Russian ballistic missile campaigns.

Following the July launch, French and Ukrainian officials signed an additional declaration of intent on November 17, 2025, formalizing plans to accelerate the deployment of advanced military equipment to Ukrainian armed forces.

Call for Broader International Support

In his public statements, Macron urged international partners possessing relevant defense assets to contribute to the ongoing effort to secure Ukrainian skies. The French leader stressed that sustaining diplomatic and economic pressure on Moscow remains essential while hostilities continue.

“It is essential that all countries possessing means join this effort,” Macron stated, adding that international pressure on Russia must increase as long as the Kremlin refuses to halt combat operations and pursue peace.

Official updates regarding the delivery schedule of the promised interceptors and further coalition developments will be released through bilateral defense channels.