Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy plans to attend the G7 summit in the French resort town of Evian-les-Bains at the end of this month to bolster military diplomacy and secure advanced air defense systems. According to a report by Politico, the Ukrainian leader’s primary objective will be to lobby for additional air defense capabilities, specifically targeting Russian ballistic missile threats, which continue to devastate Ukrainian cities and critical infrastructure.
While a French presidential advisor suggested in March that no official invitation had been extended to Zelenskyy, sources close to the negotiations have confirmed that preparations for his attendance are underway. The summit represents a crucial venue for Ukraine to align its defense strategies with its wealthiest democratic allies. Key topics of discussion will center on intensifying military aid, tightening economic sanctions, and exploring mechanisms to utilize frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s reconstruction.
The scheduling of this year’s summit has faced notable adjustments. France chose to delay the start of the event to avoid a conflict with U.S. President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday. While officially described as a routine alignment of schedules, insiders suggest the move was designed to accommodate high-profile events and celebrations planned at the White House.
This scheduling accommodation underscores the diplomatic tightrope Ukraine must navigate. During last year’s G7 summit, Trump abruptly departed early due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. His premature exit not only hindered a unified G7 statement on regional de-escalation but also deprived Zelenskyy of a vital opportunity to hold direct, face-to-face talks regarding military assistance and weapons procurement.
As Russia continues its war of attrition, the upcoming summit in Evian-les-Bains is highly anticipated as a test of Western solidarity. Zelenskyy’s presence will serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict, forcing G7 leaders to confront the necessity of sustained, long-term military commitment. For Ukraine, securing sophisticated anti-ballistic missile systems remains the absolute priority to safeguard its skies and turn the tide on the battlefield.