European nations launch anti-missile coalition with Ukraine

Nine European countries, plus the United Kingdom according to some accounts, have signed a declaration to create a coalition to develop an independent anti-ballistic missile system, reducing reliance on the United States. The move comes amid heightened threats from Russian missile attacks, particularly the Oreshnik system capable of carrying nuclear warheads. Source: Clarin Source: Lavanguardia

Participants and scope

• The core group includes Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, and Ukraine. Source: Clarin Source: Lavanguardia
• The UK was listed as a signatory in some reports, though others mention it separately in relation to a loan agreement. Source: Lavanguardia
• The coalition is open to other nations sharing its principles. Source: Lavanguardia

Goals and capabilities

The aim is to develop a shared, integrated anti-missile architecture, building on existing systems like the US-made Patriot and the Franco-Italian SAMP/T, with improvements based on Ukraine's combat experience. Source: Lavanguardia The declaration states the coalition is "purely defensive" and not directed against any people. Source: Clarin

Broader context

Separately, the UK signed an agreement to participate in a €90 billion EU loan for Ukraine, with provisions for British defense contracts. Source: Clarin The summit in Paris also served to coordinate commitments to send Patriot batteries to Ukraine. Source: Clarin