Ukraine, NB8 Set Winter Priorities

Ukraine and the Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB8) discussed strengthening air defenses, protecting the energy sector and securing additional financial support during a summit in Kyiv, according to the Ukrainian president’s office. The meeting focused on preparations for winter and Russia’s expected military activity.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the participating countries for their continued support and called ballistic missiles Ukraine’s primary security threat. He urged partners to accelerate the FREYJA anti-ballistic program, provide additional air-defense missiles and maintain sanctions against Russian companies and individuals involved in missile production.

The leaders also discussed safeguarding Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, securing gas supplies and building reserves of critical equipment ahead of the winter period. Zelenskyy said Ukraine faces a $27 billion funding shortfall after defense funds were redirected to urgent needs, including drone purchases. He called for advancing approximately €10 billion in European loan financing planned for 2027 to help cover weapons production and other defense requirements early next year.

The summit participants backed stronger pressure on Russia’s shadow fleet and further action involving frozen Russian assets. They also addressed Russia’s strikes on Ukrainian ports, the expansion of drone production and the opening of the remaining four negotiating clusters for Ukraine’s European Union accession. The meeting was the second Ukraine–NB8 summit, following the inaugural gathering in Kyiv in February 2026.