Ukraine Receives First Mirage 2000 Jets from France

Ukraine has received its first batch of Mirage 2000 fighter jets from France, marking a significant step forward in its defense capabilities. French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed the delivery on Thursday, stating that the jets will now contribute to defending Ukraine's skies. This marks the addition of a second Western aircraft type for Ukraine, alongside the F-16 jets delivered by other allies in 2024.

The jets, which arrived with Ukrainian pilots onboard after several months of training in France, are equipped with advanced NATO-compatible ordnance, including Scalp/Storm Shadow air-launched cruise missiles and guided bombs. These weapons will enhance Ukraine’s ability to defend against aerial threats and strengthen its air force capabilities. The Mirage 2000-5 models, specifically tailored for air superiority, are also being upgraded with equipment for air-to-ground combat and electronic warfare defense.

This delivery follows French President Emmanuel Macron’s June announcement of the plan to provide the Mirage 2000 jets to Ukraine. France intends to send a total of six Mirage 2000-5 aircraft, with the first three already delivered. This new addition further strengthens Ukraine’s air defense and complements existing NATO weapons systems.

Alongside these aircraft deliveries, Lecornu also highlighted France’s growing defense budget, with a €3.3 billion increase for 2025, aimed at modernizing military assets and supporting ongoing rearmament efforts. France continues to play a crucial role in international support for Ukraine as the war with Russia persists.

The United States, traditionally a leader in the international coalition supporting Ukraine, has recently begun transitioning leadership of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) to the United Kingdom. This move marks the first time that an American defense secretary will not convene the group. The UDCG, which comprises 50 countries, has been crucial in coordinating military aid to Ukraine. However, the Trump administration has shown growing reluctance to continue American military support, with concerns over readiness for potential conflict with China over Taiwan.

Although U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will attend the upcoming UDCG meeting in Brussels, the U.S. will no longer host the meeting, reflecting a shift in priorities. While European leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, continue to emphasize the importance of sustained U.S. support, American policy under the Trump administration remains focused on reducing foreign commitments in favor of addressing perceived threats in the Pacific.