France pledges new interceptor missiles to Ukraine after surge in Russian strikes

France promised on Saturday to deliver new interceptor missiles to Ukraine amid a surge in Russian strikes that Ukrainian officials say have killed nearly 30 people since Friday.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul visited Kyiv and sharply criticised President Vladimir Putin for intensifying the war. He pledged additional aid.

Local authorities reported at least seven deaths from Russian strikes early on Saturday. The broader toll since Friday approaches 30 according to Ukrainian counts.

The French commitment focuses on air-defence interceptors. Details on quantities and delivery timelines were not immediately released.

Putin has said Ukraine opened a “Pandora’s box” with strikes on Russian economic targets and that Russia will respond against Ukraine’s most sensitive economic sectors.

The latest wave of attacks continues a pattern of intensified long-range strikes on cities and infrastructure. Ukraine continues to press partners for more advanced air-defence systems and munitions.

Wadephul’s visit is part of coordinated European efforts to maintain support. Germany has already supplied significant military aid and has signalled further packages.

The conflict remains the dominant security issue in Europe. Both sides show no immediate sign of moving toward negotiations that would alter the current trajectory of attrition.