Key facts
- Allies are meeting in Paris to discuss increased air defense aid for Ukraine.
- Ukraine seeks joint development of anti-ballistic air defense systems with European countries.
- Russia has increased ballistic missile and drone attacks on Ukraine.
- Donald Trump pledged a US license for Patriot missile production in Ukraine.
- France announced sanctions against Russian hackers targeting European countries.
Leaders from 37 countries, part of the "Coalition of the Willing," are convening in Paris to discuss ongoing support for Ukraine, with a particular focus on bolstering the nation's air defense capabilities. The meeting comes as Russia intensifies its ballistic missile and drone attacks across Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is attending the talks, aiming to secure commitments for systems like Patriots and SAMP-T, and to advance plans for joint development of anti-ballistic defenses with European partners.
Allies are expected to seek more concrete commitments for air defense systems. The urgency is underscored by recent Russian aerial assaults, which have caused significant damage and casualties. President Zelenskyy has emphasized the critical need for enhanced protection. The meeting also serves as a demonstration of long-term commitment to Ukraine and a signal to Russia.
France announced it would summon the Russian ambassador and impose sanctions on Russian hackers responsible for a cyber campaign targeting approximately 10 European countries. European foreign ministers are meeting separately in Brussels to address Ukraine's needs and perceived threats from Russia.
Recent developments highlight the ongoing conflict: Russia reported downing 350 Ukrainian drones aimed at Moscow and thwarting drone attacks on its air bases. Conversely, Ukraine's air force stated it shot down most of the 134 Russian drones and three missiles launched at the country, though some caused damage. In Zaporizhzhia, recent Russian strikes damaged apartment blocks, hospitalizing over 70 people. A drone launched from Ukraine's Odesa region reportedly crashed in Moldova, which Moldova's Ministry of Foreign Affairs called "serious and unacceptable."
President Zelenskyy's push for air defense comes after a yearlong peace effort by the Trump administration. Donald Trump's recent pledge to provide Ukraine with a license for Patriot air-defense system production could be a significant breakthrough, though experts caution that actual weapon development may take years.