Zelensky asks Macron for more air defence systems as Russian attacks intensify

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he asked French President Emmanuel Macron for more air defence systems and missiles during a call on Sunday (Oct 12).

Zelensky also emphasised that Russian attacks have become “even more vile” and accused Moscow of exploiting the world’s focus on the Middle East.

“I spoke with President Emmanuel Macron. I am grateful to France for all it does to protect lives,” Zelensky said on social media.

He added, “I informed him of our urgent needs—especially air defence systems and missiles. Russia is taking advantage of the fact that the Middle East and domestic issues are receiving maximum attention.”

Zelensky said the leaders also discussed ways to counter Russian strikes and expand the PURL initiative. “We coordinated with partners and our diplomatic steps for the coming weeks. We are working to increase pressure on Russia,” he said.

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Zelensky also spoke with US President Donald Trump for the second time in two days. He said they discussed Ukraine’s defence, air defence, long-range capabilities, energy issues, and other aspects of the situation. “President Trump is well informed. We agreed to continue our dialogue, and our teams are preparing the next steps,” Zelensky said.

A day earlier, Zelensky had asked Trump to help broker a ceasefire in Ukraine, praising his success in securing a peace deal in the Middle East. “If a war can be stopped in one region, other wars can be stopped too—including Russia’s war in Ukraine,” Zelensky said on X.

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