France Unveils $2.15 Billion Military Aid Package for Ukraine

March 26 (UPI) -- In a significant show of support, French President Emmanuel Macron has declared a $2.15 billion aid package for Ukraine during his recent meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky. This funding is aimed at bolstering Ukraine's military capabilities as it continues to defend itself against Russian incursions. The aid encompasses essential military equipment, including anti-tank missiles, surface-to-air missiles, and drones. Such provisions are intended to enhance Ukraine's defenses against both air and ground assaults from Russia, according to reports from France 24. Zelensky's visit to Paris comes just ahead of a larger summit scheduled for Thursday, which will convene leaders from various countries including Germany, Poland, and the United Kingdom. This gathering, referred to as the "coalition of the willing," aims to formulate strategies to bolster Ukraine's security while addressing the ongoing conflict that escalated following Russia's invasion in February 2022, as reported by the Kyiv Independent. During the coalition meeting at the Elysee Palace, approximately 30 nations will come together to discuss military assistance for Ukraine and the possibility of deploying peacekeeping forces to uphold a potential cease-fire between Russia and Ukraine, according to Le Monde. French President Emmanuel Macron greets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Elysee Palace in Paris while announcing support for Ukraine's military defense. Photo by Maya Vidon-White/UPI Both France and the United Kingdom have committed to this coalition, highlighting Europe's two nuclear powers' readiness to extend military support and possibly send troops to enforce peace should a cease-fire be negotiated. Amidst these developments, Macron remarked on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s perceived "desire for war" and emphasized that the coalition's focus must be on ensuring Ukraine's security against ongoing Russian aggression.