Ukraine Unveils ‘FREYJA’ Missile Shield as France, UK and Germany Expand Military Support

Leaders of the Coalition of the Willing met in Paris to reinforce military and political support for Ukraine, announcing new defence initiatives, expanded weapons production, long-term security commitments, and preparations for a future peacekeeping mission. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky introduced the FREYJA anti-ballistic missile programme, while France pledged air defence systems and Rafale fighter jets, the UK reaffirmed financial and military assistance, and Germany called on Russia to begin meaningful peace negotiations.

Coalition of the Willing Summit Strengthens Support for Ukraine

The Coalition of the Willing summit in Paris brought together leaders from Ukraine, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and several allied nations to discuss the next phase of support for Ukraine. The discussions focused on strengthening air defence capabilities, increasing domestic defence manufacturing, enhancing military cooperation, and preparing long-term security arrangements as the war continues.

Leaders agreed that maintaining Ukraine's defence capabilities remains essential while simultaneously laying the groundwork for future peace and regional stability across Europe.

Summit Overview

Particulars	Details
Event	Coalition of the Willing Summit
Venue	Paris, France
Key Participants	Ukraine, France, Germany, UK and allied nations
Primary Focus	Defence cooperation, security and Ukraine support

Zelensky Launches FREYJA Anti-Ballistic Defence Programme

President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the launch of FREYJA, a new anti-ballistic missile initiative designed to accelerate the production of interceptor missiles needed to defend Ukraine against continued missile attacks. The programme seeks to coordinate governments, defence industries, and political partners to develop scalable and cost-effective missile defence systems within the next twelve months.

The initiative is intended not only to strengthen Ukraine's air defence network but also to support other countries requiring similar defensive capabilities in the future.

FREYJA Initiative

Feature	Details
Programme	FREYJA
Objective	Expand anti-ballistic missile production
Timeline	Within 12 months
Focus	Affordable, scalable interceptor systems

France Announces New Defence Cooperation Package

French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that France and Ukraine have finalized a long-term defence cooperation roadmap. As part of the agreement, France will provide an initial batch of SAMP/T air defence systems and 16 Rafale fighter aircraft, with deliveries expected over the coming years.

The two countries also concluded licensing agreements allowing Ukraine to manufacture advanced French weapon systems domestically, including SCALP cruise missiles, AASM precision-guided bombs, and Aster 30 missiles. France further announced the formation of an eight-country Anti-Ballistic Coalition and plans for multinational military exercises to improve operational readiness.

French Defence Commitments

Commitment	Details
Air Defence	SAMP/T Systems
Fighter Aircraft	16 Rafale Jets
Domestic Production	SCALP, AASM & Aster 30
Coalition	Eight-country Anti-Ballistic Alliance
Military Exercises	Land, Air and Sea Operations

UK Reaffirms Long-Term Military and Financial Support

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer reiterated Britain's commitment to Ukraine by confirming participation in the €90 billion European Union Ukraine Support Loan. The funding will enable Ukraine to procure additional British-made ammunition and air defence equipment while strengthening long-term defence cooperation.

The UK also confirmed that planning continues for a multinational peacekeeping force involving more than 25 countries, which would be deployed after a ceasefire to help maintain security and stability.

United Kingdom Support

Initiative	Details
EU Support Loan	€90 Billion Programme
Military Assistance	Ammunition & Air Defence
Peacekeeping	Multinational Force (25+ Nations)
Objective	Post-ceasefire security

Germany Says Conflict Has Entered a New Phase

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the conflict has entered a new stage, arguing that Ukraine has demonstrated greater military resilience while Russia has failed to achieve several of its strategic objectives.

According to Merz, Ukraine has shown its willingness to pursue peace, and responsibility now lies with Russia to engage in meaningful negotiations aimed at ending the conflict.

Germany's Position

Issue	Statement
War Assessment	Conflict entering a new phase
Ukraine	Prepared for peace
Russia	Expected to begin serious negotiations
European Goal	Long-term regional security

Summit Reinforces European Unity on Security

The Paris summit concluded with participating nations reaffirming their shared commitment to restoring peace in Ukraine while strengthening Europe's collective security architecture. Alongside immediate military assistance, leaders emphasized expanding defence industrial cooperation, improving missile defence capabilities, and maintaining coordinated international support until a lasting political solution can be achieved.

Key Announcements

Announcement	Outcome
FREYJA Programme	Accelerated missile defence production
France-Ukraine Roadmap	Expanded defence cooperation
UK Assistance	Continued financial and military support
Anti-Ballistic Coalition	Eight participating countries
Peacekeeping Planning	Multinational force after ceasefire

Outlook

The Coalition of the Willing summit signals continued Western commitment to strengthening Ukraine's military capabilities while preparing for future peace and security arrangements. New investments in missile defence, domestic weapons manufacturing, multinational military cooperation, and financial assistance are expected to reinforce Ukraine's defence posture as diplomatic efforts continue.

1. What is the FREYJA programme?

The FREYJA programme is a new anti-ballistic missile initiative announced by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to accelerate the production of interceptor missiles and strengthen air defence capabilities.

2. What military support did France announce?

France announced the supply of SAMP/T air defence systems, 16 Rafale fighter jets, and licensing agreements that will allow Ukraine to manufacture SCALP cruise missiles, AASM guided bombs, and Aster 30 missiles domestically.

3. What support did the UK confirm?

The United Kingdom confirmed its participation in the €90 billion EU Ukraine Support Loan and reiterated its commitment to providing continued military assistance, including ammunition and air defence systems.

4. What was Germany's position?

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Ukraine is prepared for peace and urged Russia to begin serious negotiations to help bring an end to the conflict.