Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy plans to finalize agreements with France on Monday for air defense systems, fighter jets, and missiles. This is aimed at strengthening Ukraine's military so it can better fight Russia's ongoing invasion.

Zelenskiy is meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, as Russia has recently stepped up drone and missile attacks on Ukraine and made quick gains in the Zaporizhzhia region.

Zelenskiy stated on Sunday on X that "A historic agreement has also been prepared with France – there will be a significant strengthening of our combat aviation, air defence, and other defence capabilities. According to the visit schedule, this will take place on Monday."

For several weeks, discussions have been held about how France could provide more military help for Kyiv's air defenses, even with political and financial problems in Paris that make people wonder how much France can truly offer.

Last month, Macron promised to send more Mirage fighter jets, on top of the six he first offered, and a new supply of Aster 30 surface-to-air missiles, made by MBDA, for Kyiv's SAMP/T air defense batteries.

This could bring greater benefits to Kyiv, possibly including a 10-year deal for military aircraft, hinting at providing advanced Rafale fighter jets from Dassault to Kyiv.

While some jets might come straight from France, most would be a long-term plan, helping Ukraine expand its total fleet to 250 warplanes, which also includes F-16s from the U.S. and Gripen jets from Sweden.

It would take time to fly the advanced jets because pilots need extensive training. Two sources mentioned that on Monday, more agreements might be made for SAMP/T air-defense systems. These could come from France's current supply or be new, long-term orders for future missiles and anti-drone systems. The sources stated they didn't know how these agreements would be paid for. Before Zelenskiy's visit, Macron's office told reporters that the goal was to use France's excellent arms industry to help Ukraine defend itself and get the equipment it needs to fight Russia. On Monday morning, Zelenskiy will attend a meeting with various manufacturers, including Dassault, and later sign an agreement and contracts, according to a French presidency schedule that didn't provide specific details. Ukrainian and French drone companies will explore ways to work together. France, along with Britain, has been promoting a group of about 30 countries ready to send soldiers and equipment to Ukraine or its western borders once Russia agrees to peace.