As Russian missile attacks on Ukrainian cities escalate, European leaders have convened in Kyiv to address the urgent need for air-defense systems and to strategize on how to intensify pressure on Moscow. This high-stakes meeting, labeled the Coalition of the Willing, is spearheaded by Britain, France, and Germany, with several other European leaders set to join remotely. Notably, EU Council President Antonio Costa is also in attendance.
The recent surge in Russian strikes has resulted in civilian casualties and significant damage to residential areas in Kyiv and beyond, prompting Ukraine to call for more robust air-defense support from its allies. In response, Britain is poised to reinforce its backing for Ukraine, while France is planning to initiate local production of the long-range SCALP missile. Additionally, France has committed to supplying more interceptor missiles to bolster Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.
Amid these developments, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has raised concerns about the declining deliveries of Patriot interceptor missiles. Ukraine received 675 of these missiles in 2023, but only 364 in 2025, with forecasts for 2026 dropping to 264. As winter approaches, Kyiv is requesting a minimum of 300 interceptors to safeguard its population.
The ongoing conflict underscores Ukraine’s reliance on advanced Western air-defense systems to thwart Russian ballistic missiles, which pose a significant interception challenge. Consequently, European allies are actively exploring methods to enhance missile supplies while simultaneously maintaining diplomatic and economic pressure on Russia.