EU Welcomes US Support for Ukraine’s Air Defences in Fight Against Russia
The European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, has welcomed US President Donald Trump’s agreement to help Kyiv obtain additional air defence systems, including those in Europe, as Ukraine continues to fight against Russia’s three-year invasion.
US Commitment to Support Ukraine’s Air Defences
"I very much welcome the announcement by President Trump that the US is trying to find additional air defences for Ukraine," Kallas told reporters upon arrival for talks by EU leaders in Brussels. "This is extremely important," she added, pushing EU member states to meet a Ukrainian request for two million shells, worth five billion euros ($5.4 billion) – having scaled back a more ambitious proposal that included air defences and missiles.
Trump’s Commitment to Find Additional Air Defences
Trump made the air defence commitment in a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday, in which the Ukrainian leader asked for help in sourcing "Patriot missile systems" in particular, according to a US readout. "President Trump agreed to work with him to find what was available, particularly in Europe," the readout said.
Current Air Defence Systems in Ukraine
Ukraine currently has seven US-made Patriot air defence systems, provided by the United States, Germany, and Romania. Officials say the system is the only one Kyiv possesses that can counter Russia’s ballistic missiles. In addition, Ukraine has two European-made SAMP/T systems from Italy and France for high-altitude interceptions. It also has some similar systems of its own and has been provided with others for shorter-range interceptions. Ukraine could also rely on fighter jets to intercept missiles: European allies have already given it F-16 and Mirage 2000-5 fighters.
Challenges in Obtaining Additional Air Defences
Further Patriot systems could theoretically be available from elsewhere in Europe, but the countries hosting them have been reluctant to part with them for national security reasons. This has led to a shortage of air defence systems in Ukraine, making the country’s air defences vulnerable to Russian attacks.
Conclusion
The US commitment to support Ukraine’s air defences is a significant step in the country’s fight against Russia’s invasion. The EU also needs to work together to provide additional support to Ukraine, including meeting its request for two million shells. The situation is complex, and finding a solution will require cooperation and diplomacy from all parties involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current situation with Ukraine’s air defences?
A: Ukraine currently has seven US-made Patriot air defence systems, provided by the United States, Germany, and Romania. It also has two European-made SAMP/T systems from Italy and France for high-altitude interceptions.
Q: What is the US commitment to support Ukraine’s air defences?
A: US President Donald Trump has agreed to work with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to find additional air defences, including those in Europe.
Q: What are the challenges in obtaining additional air defences?
A: The countries hosting air defence systems, including Patriot systems, have been reluctant to part with them for national security reasons, making it difficult for Ukraine to obtain additional air defences.