Ukraine’s Zelensky makes surprise visit to Paris for talks as part of multi-stop European tour

France dispatched a plane to pick up Zelensky in Germany, where he had held meetings with Chancellor Olaf Scholz earlier on Sunday

Emmanuel Macron’s office said the two leaders will hold talks over dinner and that Macron will ‘reaffirm France and Europe’s unwavering support’ for Ukraine

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French President Emmanuel Macron, right, welcomes his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky at the Elysee Palace in Paris, France on Sunday. Photo: EPA-EFE

Published: 3:28am, 15 May 2023Updated: 7:41am, 15 May 2023

France on Monday announced dozens more light tanks and armoured vehicles for Ukraine’s army, together with training for the soldiers using them.

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky landed in Paris on Sunday for talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, after accepting a prize for his country’s fight for “European ideals” during a visit to Germany.

French President Emmanuel Macron, left, welcomes Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Elysee Palace in Paris, France on Sunday. Photo: Reuters

In their joint statement, Macron and Zelensky also called for fresh sanctions against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

“In the coming weeks, France will train and equip several battalions with tens of armoured vehicles and light tanks including AMX-10RC,” said the statement.

Paris would also focus its efforts “in supporting Ukraine’s air defence capacities in order to defend its population against Russian strikes”.

“Ukraine and France agree on the need to increase collective pressure on Russia through further sanctions to weaken Russia’s ability to continue its illegal war of aggression.”

“Paris. With each visit, Ukraine’s defence and offensive capabilities are expanding,” Zelensky tweeted as he arrived on Sunday evening at the airbase of Villacoublay southwest of Paris.