Ukrainian President has publicly stated that Europe must have its own missile defense system. Ukraine has initiated negotiations with several countries on this matter as the country’s biggest challenge currently is the missile threat from Russia. However, at present, only the American “Patriot” missile defense system has the capability to successfully intercept these missiles.
Due to Russia’s use of missiles and drones to continuously attack Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, including thermal power generation and power transmission systems, many areas in Ukraine have experienced widespread and prolonged power outages. This issue becomes even more deadly for the people of Ukraine during the winter months.
On April 19th, President Zelensky of Ukraine shared on the social media platform X that “Russian forces have launched over 2,360 attacking drones, more than 1,320 guided air bombs, and nearly 60 various types of missiles on our towns and communities.”
Zelensky further expressed on the national television marathon channel (aimed at updating the public daily on the latest situation in Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion) that “I believe we should establish a European missile defense system. We are in negotiations with several countries and working towards this goal. This missile defense system needs to be established within a year.”
He also admitted that implementing this mission is extremely challenging, but it is indeed a feasible solution and discussions have been held with some important European countries on this matter. However, he did not reveal the names of these countries or further details.
On the same day, Zelensky also mentioned in another post on the X platform, “We are preparing to announce next week about a security cooperation plan with partners. There will be more security cooperation in the future. Currently, we have arranged a security cooperation agreement with India which is in the final confirmation stage.”
He continued, saying, “We are also preparing for further cooperation with European partners to release the support that has been approved but not yet formally delivered to Ukraine.”
In fact, the Ukrainian manufacturer of the “Firebird” missile, Fire Point, had informed Reuters in early April that they were in talks with European companies to introduce a new missile defense system with lower costs next year, to replace the American “Patriot” missile defense system.
Furthermore, Zelensky criticized the international relaxation of sanctions on Russia, which allows Russia to obtain war funds through oil and gives the impression to its leadership that they can continue waging war. “Currently, Moscow has over 110 shadow fleets sailing at sea, carrying more than 12 million tons of oil. With the easing of sanctions, this oil can be sold without restraint.”
He added that this oil is worth $10 billion and the funds obtained from it are used to attack Ukraine. Therefore, the need to target Russian oil tankers transporting oil to ports is crucial. “Here, I thank every soldier for their precise actions and appreciate all partners who are exerting pressure on Russia.”
(Reference: Reuters report)