Ukraine is undoubtedly raising the bar for military innovation. As recently announced, India has signed a landmark inter-governmental agreement with France to buy up to 100 Rafale warplanes, as well as combat drones and air defense systems. Current Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron completed this agreement in July 2019. It is a reflection of their serious ambition to strengthen Ukraine’s defense over the next 10 years.
The announcement comes after a dramatic increase in provocations across the region. Most recently, an explosion along the only remaining stable railway line—which transports the vast majority of supplies to Ukraine—has escalated the urgency. Former Prime Minister Donald Tusk, the most senior politician in Poland to date, called this explosion “an unprecedented act of sabotage.” He warned of the catastrophe that such an event would cause. He stressed the precarious security environment Ukraine is experiencing today.
A drone attack killed civilians in southern Ukraine’s Odesa region. The target was the Turkish-flagged tanker MT Orinda as tensions between the two sides rose further. The strike reportedly ignited a fire on the ship. Fortunately, all 16 crew members were able to evacuate safely and without injury. Following this deadly attack, in a preemptive act, Romanian authorities evacuated two border villages along the Ukrainian border.
The military agreement with France is another important moment for Ukraine. As President Zelenskyy called it, “a historic deal,” this demonstrates how international collaboration can strengthen national security. The agreement includes a very comprehensive catalogue of aircraft. It covers dozens of drones and advanced air defense systems, which are essential to Ukraine’s defense strategy.
U.S. political realities are changing quickly. In fact, just yesterday, former President Donald Trump indicated that he would be prepared to sign legislation—including sanctions against Russia—if that legislation was passed and sent to him. This latest escalation would deepen an already fraught geopolitical stage, given the currently unfolding war in Ukraine and Middle Eastern turmoil.
At the same time, China is trying to assure its role as the most important friend of Russia. Chinese Premier Li Qiang recently met with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin in Moscow, announcing plans to deepen cooperation in energy, agriculture, and other investments. This groundbreaking partnership will be a game changer for regional stability and economic prosperity.