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Zelenskyy Leads Ukraine’s First Ground-Air Bastille Parade, Unveils ABM Plan

7/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy marched with troops and pilots who flew French Mirage 2000B jets, marking Ukraine’s first appearance in both the ground and aerial segments of the Bastille Day parade.
The procession recorded 7,600 troops, surpassing the 5,810 participants in 2025.
The official programme, “l’éveil stratégique de l’Europe,” framed the display as a strategic awakening of Europe.
Ukrainian officials presented a long-term anti-ballistic-defence programme to international leaders and aerospace executives.

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Story summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy marched with troops and pilots who flew French Mirage 2000B jets, marking Ukraine’s first appearance in both the ground and aerial segments of the Bastille Day parade.
The procession recorded 7,600 troops, surpassing the 5,810 participants in 2025.
The official programme, “l’éveil stratégique de l’Europe,” framed the display as a strategic awakening of Europe.
Ukrainian officials presented a long-term anti-ballistic-defence programme to international leaders and aerospace executives.