Zelenskyy Seeks More European Air Defense

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged European Union leaders to accelerate efforts to provide Ukraine with ballistic-missile interceptors, warning that Russia has launched a large-scale campaign against the country’s energy infrastructure. Speaking at a European Council meeting on Oct. 16, he called for a winter air-defense package that would include 300 Patriot interceptors.

Zelenskyy said Ukraine needs sustained military and financial support as it prepares for a prolonged war. He estimated that the conflict will cost Ukraine €155 billion next year and requested at least €70 billion in additional European assistance for defense, weapons and resilience. He also promoted increased investment in Ukraine’s defense industry, including joint production of drones and other weapons with European partners.

The Ukrainian president called on the EU to maintain pressure on Russia and adopt a strong 22nd sanctions package targeting companies and individuals involved in producing ballistic missiles, communications systems and drones, as well as those supporting Russia’s financial system. He also urged European governments to protect and use frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine.

Zelenskyy further pressed the EU to advance Ukraine and Moldova together toward membership, saying the remaining two accession clusters for Ukraine should be opened by the end of the year. He argued that Ukraine’s military capabilities and technological expertise should be incorporated into Europe’s future security arrangements and the EU budget beginning in 2028.