In “Post-US Aid” Era, Ukraine Turns to France for 10-Year, 100-Jet Deal

Ukraine is navigating a new “post-US aid” era by forging a “historical” 10-year defense pact with France, securing a preliminary deal for 100 Rafale jets. This move, finalized by President Zelensky in Paris, represents a fundamental strategic pivot to Europe, a shift forced by the Trump administration’s decision to halt support and insist that European allies must pay for Ukraine’s defense.
This new reality has made European partners like France and Sweden the primary guarantors of Ukraine’s security. The 10-year French pact is a comprehensive security guarantee, also including eight “world-class” SAMP/T air defense systems, radars, and drones, all sourced and paid for without Washington’s involvement. It follows a recent letter of intent with Sweden for 150 Saab jets.
The financing for this new defense model is now entirely European. The French presidency confirmed that the EU’s €150 billion SAFE loan fund would be tapped. In addition, President Zelensky announced that Kyiv would use a G7-backed mechanism that leverages future revenues from immobilized Russian assets, another initiative being driven by the EU.
This new arsenal is desperately needed to counter Russia’s brutal air war. Moscow’s intensified strikes with missiles and glide bombs have made air defense Kyiv’s top priority. The combination of French Rafales, Swedish Saabs, and European air defense systems will provide the robust shield Ukraine needs.
While Ukraine is still receiving some F-16s from a previous NATO arrangement, the future of its air force is now clearly French and Swedish. The 10-year pact with France cements this new reality, creating a deep industrial and military alliance with Paris that is independent of Washington.