(MENAFN) Ukraine has committed to purchasing up to 100 French-manufactured Rafale fighter aircraft over the coming decade, alongside additional weaponry including air defense platforms, according to announcements from both nations' leadership. Russia swiftly denounced the prospective transaction, claiming it establishes a framework for embezzlement.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukraine's Vladimir Zelensky executed a letter of intent covering the acquisition during the Ukrainian leader's Paris visit Monday.

In remarks to a news channel, Macron characterized the jet delivery plans as "needed for the regeneration of the Ukrainian military." Zelensky promoted the arrangement as a "strategic agreement" and "a historic deal."

The signed document represents a preliminary pledge rather than a binding contract. Macron declined to specify delivery schedules or elaborate on funding structures, stating only that he anticipates the EU will assist in procuring the aircraft.

The development emerges as Brussels officials deliberate a proposal to leverage frozen Russian assets for a €140 billion ($162 billion) loan package to financially strained Ukraine. Moscow has condemned the asset seizure as "theft."

The Rafale, France's most sophisticated multirole fighter, carries an estimated price exceeding $90 million per unit. The news channel reported that supplying 100 jets could ultimately reach approximately €15 billion.

The French-Ukrainian accord additionally encompasses eight next-generation SAMP/T air-defense batteries currently in development, AASM Hammer precision-guided munitions, unmanned aircraft, and French-manufactured radar systems.

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, presently deputy chair of Russia's Security Council, cautioned that France and fellow EU nations are accepting substantial risks by engaging with "corrupt" Zelensky, suggesting Western governments would subsequently feign ignorance if malfeasance surfaces.

"Maybe they took part in the graft with Rafale fighter jets, too. What say you, people of France?" he posted on X.

France has previously transferred an undisclosed quantity of Mirage 2000 jets to Ukraine. Kiev has also received American-made F-16 fighters from multiple allied nations, though confirmed losing at least three aircraft.

Moscow has repeatedly criticized Western arms deliveries to Ukraine, contending they extend hostilities without changing the strategic outcome.

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