France has announced plans to provide Ukraine with new missile-defense systems as Russian missile and drone attacks increase. President Emmanuel Macron made the announcement after a telephone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, according to the report published on August 23, 2026. Macron said Ukraine’s air defenses needed to be strengthened quickly.

France will rapidly supply new interceptor missiles and other military equipment, Macron said. Paris will also cooperate on providing missile-production technology and licenses. Ukraine has long sought additional air-defense systems and missiles to counter Russian ballistic missiles, while Kyiv has expressed concern over shortages of US-made Patriot missiles.

Macron spoke with Zelenskyy after a Russian drone attack on a shopping center in Kryvyi Rih that caused multiple casualties. He condemned the attack and pledged stronger Ukrainian air defenses. Ukraine has also launched drone attacks on Russian economic and military facilities, while peace talks involving the United States, Ukraine and Russia remain effectively stalled. European allies led by France and the United Kingdom are expected to meet on further support for Ukraine and ways to increase pressure on Russia.