Ukraine war briefing: Allies give nod for Kyiv to reproduce their air-defence missiles

What Happened

European G7 countries and the United States are prepared to license Ukraine-based companies to manufacture long-range missiles and air-defense systems domestically, as existing stocks supplied to Kyiv dwindle. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced the initiative after a G7 leaders' summit, stating that production shortfalls would be offset by granting licences to European and Ukrainian firms. A diplomatic source confirmed the plan covers not only air-defence systems but also 'deep-strike capabilities.' The shift reflects a newly found unity among G7 leaders, with French President Emmanuel Macron noting a 'very deep change in the US approach' under Donald Trump, who acknowledged Russia as the 'offensive' party and the side suffering the most troop losses. Separately, Ukraine's defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov said Ukraine will request an additional $20 billion in military funding at a Thursday meeting of the Ramstein group, while the EU plans to extend protections for Ukrainian refugees for another year, potentially exempting men of military age.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The licensing arrangement could significantly bolster Ukraine's long-term defence industrial base and reduce reliance on dwindling allied stockpiles, while signalling transatlantic unity on arming Ukraine despite previous tensions. Trump's shift and the G7's public endorsement suggest a more coordinated Western strategy to pressure Russia, while the additional $20bn request underlines Ukraine's urgent and ongoing need for military support.

Watch For

Outcomes of the Thursday Ramstein group meeting, including the scale of pledged military funding; details on which specific missile systems will be licensed and by which companies; implementation timelines for Ukrainian domestic production; any Russian diplomatic or military response, including potential escalation or fresh accusations like the contested Bryansk drone strike claim; and the EU summit in Brussels where diplomatic contacts with Russia may be discussed alongside refugee policy.