Ukraine faces air defense shortage as EU releases €1.4 billion in Russian asset profits

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that international partners delivered only one-third of the air defense interceptor missiles provided in 2025. The severe deficit comes as Russian forces step up missile and drone barrages targeting Kyiv and critical port infrastructure.

To address the critical shortage, Zelensky consulted NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to coordinate securing additional interceptor supplies.

Despite the military strain, Kyiv reported progress on diplomatic and financial fronts. Zelensky announced that Ukraine satisfied all prerequisites to open four new negotiation chapter clusters for European Union accession. Additionally, the EU transferred a fifth financial tranche worth €1.4 billion to Ukraine. Derived from profits on immobilized Russian central bank assets, the funds will support Ukraine's military procurement and broader economic defense needs.

Sources: Digi24, Economedia, HotNews, Moldova1, Ziarul de Gardă.