As Russian missile attacks on Ukrainian cities grow more lethal, European leaders are convening in Kyiv to address Ukraine’s urgent need for air-defense capabilities and to discuss strategies for intensifying pressure on Russia. This gathering, known as the Coalition of the Willing, is spearheaded by Britain, France, and Germany, with additional European leaders participating remotely. Antonio Costa, the President of the EU Council, is also present at the talks.
Increasingly targeted by Russian missile strikes, Kyiv and other cities have suffered civilian casualties and the destruction of residential buildings. In response, Ukraine has persistently urged its allies to supply more air-defense systems and interceptor missiles to safeguard its population. Britain is anticipated to express its support for Ukraine, while France is set to initiate local production of the long-range SCALP missile. Furthermore, France has committed to delivering additional interceptor missiles to bolster Ukraine’s air defenses.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has pointed out a significant decline in the delivery of Patriot interceptor missiles. In 2023, Ukraine received 675 of these missiles, a number that dropped to 364 in 2025, with current estimates for 2026 suggesting a further reduction to 264. In preparation for the upcoming winter, Kyiv is requesting at least 300 interceptors.
Ukraine’s reliance on advanced Western air-defense systems is crucial in its efforts to combat Russian ballistic missiles, which pose a considerable challenge to intercept. With this in mind, European allies are actively exploring ways to boost the supply of these systems while continuing to exert pressure on Moscow. The discussions in Kyiv underline the ongoing commitment of European leaders to support Ukraine in its defense against escalating Russian aggression.