Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron engaged in a phone conversation on Sunday to address Kyiv's pressing defense requirements. Zelenskyy emphasized the necessity of strengthening Ukraine's air defense to ensure protection against Russian missiles and drones.

According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy disclosed that their discussion included the supply of additional missiles for the SAMP/T and Crotale missile systems. They also covered the financing of Ukrainian drone production, with France expressing willingness to assist in this area. Additionally, the training of Ukrainian pilots on Mirage jets was a key topic, with Zelenskyy expressing gratitude for France's continued support.

Zelenskyy informed Macron about the recent negotiations in Istanbul between Moscow and Kyiv, highlighting the agreement on a new prisoner swap. He noted that a response from Russia regarding a proposed high-level meeting by the end of August is awaited, emphasizing the importance of European representation at the meeting.

The recent peace talks in Istanbul resulted in an agreement on a prisoner exchange involving at least 1,200 individuals from each side. Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council Secretary, Rustem Umerov, who led the Kyiv delegation, proposed a meeting between Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with participation from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and US President Donald Trump. The Kremlin, however, stated the need for groundwork before any such meeting.

Zelenskyy and Macron also discussed Ukraine's European integration path, agreeing to work on solutions to expedite the opening of the first negotiation cluster. Macron reiterated France's commitment to supporting Ukraine and increasing pressure on Russia to agree to a ceasefire, with European involvement in the peace process.

In a separate conversation, Zelenskyy spoke with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen about Ukraine's EU accession, Russian sanctions, and anti-corruption efforts. He expressed gratitude for the European Commission's expertise and the EU's 18th sanctions package against Russia. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of adopting pending legislation related to Ukraine's asset recovery agency.

Von der Leyen affirmed the EU's support for Ukraine's progress on its European path, underscoring the positive nature of their conversation.