Zelenskyy calls on Europe for stronger Ukraine air defense

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy traveled to Paris on Monday, July 13, 2026, to appeal to European leaders for urgent assistance in developing defenses against Russian ballistic missiles, which have relentlessly targeted Ukraine's power grid for over four years. The meeting, part of a gathering of more than 30 countries supporting Ukraine known as the Coalition of the Willing, included approximately 25 heads of state and government, signaling a strong demonstration of long-term European commitment.

Zelenskyy stated that his top priority is anti-ballistic defense, aiming to accelerate joint development plans with European nations before winter, when Russia typically intensifies attacks on energy infrastructure. Ukrainian officials presented a proposed Anti-Ballistic Program and met with government leaders, national security advisers, and defense companies. The visit coincided with a separate meeting of European foreign ministers in Brussels to discuss Ukraine's needs and regional threats.

The push for enhanced air defense follows a pledge last week by U.S. President Donald Trump to grant Ukraine a license to produce Patriot air defense systems. While potentially a major...