Volodymyr ZelenskyUkrainian President Zelensky will be received by Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace this Thursday at 15:00 PM. This meeting marks Zelensky's fifth visit to France since the start of the Russian invasion in February 2022. The Ukrainian president, currently on a European tour, is also scheduled to meet with Pope Francis in Rome and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin.
The meeting in Paris, as highlighted in a statement from the Élysée Palace, will be an opportunity for Macron to reaffirm France's unwavering support for Ukraine and its people. In a context where the Ukrainian army is facing increasing pressure on the eastern front, this meeting takes on particular importance. France, through its military commitments, continues to provide assistance, notably with the planned delivery of Mirage 2000 aircraft by the first quarter of 2025.
The series of meetings comes after the postponement of a summit on Ukraine's defense, initially planned for Saturday at a US base in Germany, following the cancellation of the visit of Joe Biden due to Hurricane Milton. Zelensky was expected to present concrete measures for a just end to the war. The situation in Ukraine remains critical, with incessant bombing targeting the country's energy infrastructure. Ukraine is therefore calling for increased defense capabilities, particularly fighter jets, to counter Russian aggression.
In Rome, Zelensky will be received by Pope Francis, followed by discussions with the Italian Prime Minister. Giorgia MeloniHe is also scheduled to travel to London for a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, marking a further step in his quest for European support.
In a recent speech in Dubrovnik, Zelensky called for the integration of all democratic nations in Europe into the European Union, stressing the importance of European unity to ensure stability in the Balkans. At a time when the outcome of the US elections could influence support for Ukraine, each meeting is crucial to maintain a dynamic of strong support in the face of Russian aggression.
In short, Zelensky's tour of Europe is a determined effort to galvanize international support as his country faces major military challenges.
