Allies Race to Bolster Ukraine’s Air Defences as Russia Intensifies Missile Assaults

Western allies are expected to announce fresh commitments to strengthen Ukraine’s air defence network as leaders gather in Paris for a high-level meeting of the “Coalition of the Willing,” amid growing concern over intensified Russian missile attacks and changing dynamics on the battlefield. The meeting comes as Kyiv warns that shortages of advanced air defence systems are leaving major cities increasingly vulnerable to Russian ballistic missile strikes.

More than 25 heads of government and senior officials are expected to attend the summit, alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The discussions are expected to focus on securing additional supplies of U.S.-made Patriot missile interceptors, expanding deliveries of the Franco-Italian SAMP/T air defence system, and accelerating joint European production of advanced missile defence technologies with Ukrainian participation.

According to officials familiar with the agenda, Ukraine’s need for stronger air defences has become increasingly urgent as Russia steps up the use of ballistic missiles and long-range drones against military infrastructure and civilian areas. While Ukrainian forces have recently achieved tactical successes in some sectors of the front, military leaders say sustained Russian aerial bombardments continue to pose one of the country’s greatest security challenges.

President Zelenskyy has repeatedly appealed to allies to speed up the delivery of promised weapons, arguing that delays in supplying missile defence systems have cost civilian lives. Kyiv is also urging partners to deepen industrial cooperation by allowing the joint production of air defence equipment and interceptor missiles inside Ukraine and elsewhere in Europe to ensure a more reliable long-term supply.

Beyond military assistance, the Paris meeting is expected to consider additional economic measures aimed at increasing pressure on Moscow. Leaders are discussing tougher sanctions targeting Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” of oil tankers used to circumvent existing restrictions, while the European Union is preparing another package of sanctions designed to reduce Russia’s ability to finance its war effort.

France, which is hosting the summit, is also expected to unveil new bilateral defence initiatives with Ukraine, including expanded joint weapons production and military exercises. Officials say the gathering will further develop plans for a future multinational security force that could help guarantee Ukraine’s security if a ceasefire or peace agreement is eventually reached.

The renewed push for air defence support follows commitments made during the recent NATO summit, where member states reaffirmed long-term military assistance for Ukraine. Defence planners say maintaining a steady flow of air defence systems and interceptor missiles will be critical to protecting Ukrainian cities, energy infrastructure and military positions as the conflict enters another challenging phase.