Kallas Urges Countries to Give Ukraine Expiring Air Defense Missiles

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called on nations possessing air defense interceptors nearing the end of their operational lifespan to transfer these crucial systems to Ukraine. This move would enable Ukraine to bolster its defenses against Russian aggression, Kallas argued during a press conference ahead of an EU defense ministers' informal gathering on Tuesday, September 1st.

Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Kallas pointed out that July and August have been the most lethal months for civilians in Ukraine. She attributed this escalated aggression to Russia's attempts to inflict maximum harm on the Ukrainian population, with the aim of breaking their resolve. Despite the resilience of Ukraine's people, Kallas emphasized the necessity of providing them with the necessary support.

In addition to seeking interceptors from EU member states, Kallas also stressed the need to engage with non-EU countries in order to secure additional air defense assets for Ukraine. However, she acknowledged that this endeavor was proving to be a challenging task. Simultaneously, efforts are underway to develop European interceptor missiles in collaboration with Ukraine, she added.

The informal ministerial meeting, Kallas clarified, would not result in immediate decisions. Yet, officials are actively pushing to unlock the European Peace Facility, which holds an estimated budget of $7.5 billion. If unlocked in the upcoming days, numerous member states have already pledged to allocate the funds they receive back to Ukraine. This additional funding would significantly enhance Ukraine's air defense capabilities and other essential requirements.

Furthermore, EU defense ministers will also deliberate on the bloc's space capabilities, which Kallas described as a critical enabler of defense, encompassing both civilian and military applications. "We really need to step up so that we are still a space power, considering what is going on there," she stated.