European Union countries are facing pressure to increase their assistance to Ukraine in terms of air defense systems following Russia’s renewed attacks with drones and missiles. Germany has already pledged to send a third Patriot battery to Kyiv, with Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskyy requesting seven more systems to protect against Russian airstrikes. NATO has also discussed the issue and is expected to make new announcements soon. However, other EU countries that own Patriot systems, such as Spain, Greece, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Romania, are under scrutiny for not making similar commitments.
High Representative Josep Borrell has emphasized the need for EU member states to increase their support for Ukraine by supplying interceptors and batteries. The Dutch Foreign Minister expressed support for Germany’s initiative but noted that depleting stocks would be difficult. Spain also expressed support for Ukraine’s need for air defense systems but did not provide a direct answer on whether they would contribute. The US Congress recently voted to release funds to provide lethal equipment to Ukraine, which was celebrated by EU leaders who fear further shortages could strengthen Russia’s hand. However, ministers warned that efforts should not be dialed down despite US support being back on track.
Lithuania’s Gabrielius Landsbergis emphasized that while the US assistance is a positive development, there are more challenges ahead and assistance should not stop. Other EU countries need to continue moving forward and doing better to support Ukraine. Sweden’s Defence Minister also highlighted the importance of stepping up support, especially as Russian troops have made small advances in recent weeks. The focus is on ground forces, and there is a need to ensure that the trajectory of the war does not go in the wrong direction.
The urgency for assistance is driven by Russia’s attacks on critical infrastructure and civilian areas, leading to civilian casualties. Ukraine’s request for air defense systems is a response to the threat posed by Russian airstrikes, including nuclear power plants and distribution networks potentially being targeted. The effectiveness of Patriot systems and their familiarity to the Ukrainian army make them a preferred choice, but the two-year manufacturing timeline poses challenges for immediate deployment. Poland, which also owns Patriot systems, needs them for its own defense due to its proximity to Ukraine and Kaliningrad.
The discussions among EU countries and NATO indicate a recognition of the need to ramp up support for Ukraine in response to Russian aggression. While Germany has taken steps to send additional Patriot systems, more commitments are needed from other EU countries that own such systems. The momentum provided by the US funding bill underscores the importance of continued support from the international community to counter Russian threats effectively. Ministers have emphasized the need for sustained efforts and improvement in support to ensure Ukraine’s security and stability in the face of ongoing conflict.
