Ukraine, Nine European Nations Form Coalition to Build Ballistic Missile Shield Against Russian Threat

PARIS: Ukraine and nine European countries have announced the formation of a new coalition aimed at developing a joint ballistic missile defense system for Europe, as concerns grow over continued Russian missile attacks and the broader security threat posed by Moscow.

The initiative was unveiled during high-level talks in Paris attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the leaders of Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom.

In a joint statement, the participating nations said their objective is to establish “a shared ballistic missile defense capability for Europe,” citing the increasing danger posed by ballistic missiles, which are significantly more difficult to intercept than cruise missiles and drones.

President Zelenskyy said Ukraine’s experience in defending against Russian missile strikes over more than four years of war could help Europe develop an effective and affordable missile defense network. Ukrainian officials presented an Anti-Ballistic Program that aims to produce a cost-effective interception system within a year, with the coalition remaining open to additional countries wishing to participate.

The announcement came as Russian President Vladimir Putin warned of intensified retaliatory strikes following Ukraine’s long-range attacks on Russian military infrastructure. Meanwhile, European foreign ministers meeting in Brussels continued discussions on strengthening regional security and expanding support for Ukraine.

Ukraine also claimed it had struck more than 100 Russian vessels in the Sea of Azov as part of efforts to disrupt Russian military logistics and further isolate occupied Crimea. At the same time, Russia reported intercepting hundreds of Ukrainian drones targeting military facilities deep inside its territory, underscoring the continuing escalation of the conflict.

The new coalition reflects Europe’s growing commitment to strengthening its collective air and missile defense capabilities while reinforcing long-term security cooperation with Ukraine amid the ongoing war with Russia.