France says no to PURL weapons program for Ukraine
Flag of France (Photo: president.gov.ua)
France is not participating in the US PURL initiative to supply weapons to Ukraine, but is ready to support Ukraine in other ways and insists on developing its own European defense systems, according to a report by Interfax.
In Kyiv, France’s Delegate Minister Alice Rufo explained Paris’s position on international support for Ukraine, emphasizing that France is not part of the PURL weapons procurement program but actively cooperates with EU partners in other areas of military assistance and is preparing to develop its own European defense systems.
France does not participate in PURL
At a briefing in Kyiv, Rufo clarified: “No, we are not participating in PURL. And we are helping in other areas.”
She noted that France welcomes initiatives by other European partners and supports efforts to strengthen the EU’s collective security.
Development of European defense systems
The French minister emphasized the importance of Europe’s independence in defense: “We want everyone to remember that, at some point, we will have to make decisions on our own and essentially develop European systems. We are preparing for the next steps.”
According to her, Paris is developing long-term strategies to create its own combat and defense systems, which will allow the EU to be less dependent on external initiatives.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte the strengthening of the country’s air defense systems and further diplomatic steps, and reported the latest Russian strikes on Kharkiv’s energy infrastructure, which left hundreds of thousands of residents without electricity and heat. Meanwhile, Kyiv is counting on increased support from its partners through the PURL weapons supply program.
Additionally, Albania has officially confirmed its readiness to participate in international programs supporting Ukraine and fulfill its commitments. Albanian Foreign Minister Olta Xhaçka stated at a joint press conference with Andrii Sybiha that Tirana will join the PURL program and intends to actively participate in it in 2026.
