Ukraine faces air defense shortage as EU transfers €1.4 billion

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that deliveries of air defense interceptors have dropped to one-third of last year's levels, exacerbating supply deficits as Russian missile and drone attacks intensify. Speaking with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Zelensky urged partners to supply additional interceptor systems, particularly US-made Patriots, to shield major cities and key infrastructure from frequent aerial salvos.

Simultaneously, Kyiv reported progress toward European Union accession, stating that "all necessary conditions" have been fulfilled to open four new negotiation clusters. Financial assistance also advanced as the European Union transferred a fifth installment of €1.4 billion derived from interest on frozen Russian central bank assets. These funds will support Ukrainian defense purchasing and economic resilience.

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