France to Sell Mirage Fighter Jets to Ukraine, Train 4,500 Pilots
In a significant move to support war-embattled Ukraine, France has announced plans to sell Mirage fighter jets to the country and train as many as 4,500 pilots. French President Emmanuel Macron made the announcement on the 80th anniversary of D-Day, a historic event that marked the beginning of the end of Nazi totalitarianism in Europe.
Macron revealed that the Mirage 2000 jets will be transferred to Ukraine by the end of the year to help the country protect its skies. The training of Ukrainian pilots on the fighter jets will take place in France over a six-month period, starting as early as this summer.
While the exact number of Mirage fighter jets to be sent to Ukraine was not disclosed, Macron emphasized that France’s support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression remains steadfast. This decision marks a change in direction for France, which had previously suggested that Ukraine focus on acquiring F-16s instead of Mirage jets.
The announcement comes at a crucial time as Ukraine seeks international assistance to bolster its defense forces against the ongoing Russian invasion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is currently on an official visit to France, has been advocating for increased military support from Western allies.
The move to sell Mirage fighter jets and train Ukrainian pilots underscores a new attitude of partnership between France and Ukraine. As world leaders and veterans gathered to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day, Macron’s announcement highlighted the parallels between the fight against Nazism in World War II and Ukraine’s current struggle for sovereignty.
Zelensky’s meeting with defense manufacturers, Macron, and the French National Assembly is expected to further solidify the cooperation between the two countries in the face of escalating tensions in Eastern Europe. France’s decision to support Ukraine with Mirage fighter jets reflects a commitment to standing by its allies in times of need.