In a new geopolitical reality defined by the Trump administration’s halt of US support, European allies are now set to “pay for” Ukraine’s defense. A new “historical” 10-year pact with France for 100 Rafale jets and other hardware will be financed entirely by European-led mechanisms. This follows the Trump administration’s insistence that western allies, not the US, must pay for equipment supplied to Kyiv, a move that has forced Ukraine to pivot to its European neighbors.
The 10-year agreement, signed by President Zelensky in Paris, is a massive procurement deal. It includes the 100 Dassault-made jets, advanced air defense systems, radars, and drones. This entire package will be funded without American dollars, a stark change from the first years of the war.
The financing will come from two primary sources. The French presidency confirmed that the EU’s €150 billion Security Action for Europe (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, effectively making Russia contribute to the bill.
The hardware this European-led funding will buy is desperately needed. Russia has intensified its air war, using missiles and glide bombs to terrorize civilian populations and destroy the power grid. Zelensky’s top priority has been securing more air defenses, and this French deal provides a comprehensive solution.
This pact is part of a broader “pivot to Europe.” It comes less than a month after Ukraine signed a letter of intent with Sweden for 150 Saab fighter jets. These deals demonstrate that Europe is now shouldering the full financial and industrial burden of supporting Ukraine’s defense for the long term.