Private Military Companies (PMCs) have become influential actors in contemporary conflicts, providing security, training, logistics, and in some cases combat support to states, corporations, and international organizations. Operating as profit-driven corporate entities, they blur the line between public and private use of force. While PMCs offer flexibility and specialized expertise, their expansion raises serious ethical, legal, and accountability concerns.
Ukraine and France signed a new bilateral defense agreement in Paris to boost Ukraine’s air-defense capabilities ahead of anticipated Russian attacks this winter. The deal includes future supplies of Rafale fighter jets and SAMP/T air-defense systems, as well as cooperation on maintenance and training. France is working to speed up delivery timelines by using its own reserves. This agreement builds on earlier security cooperation between the two countries and reinforces France’s role as a key partner in Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.
