PARIS: Nine European countries and Ukraine on Monday announced the formation of a coalition to develop “purely defensive” anti-ballistic capabilities in Europe, citing the growing threat of ballistic missiles. Ukrainian President Zelensky was in Paris on Monday for a meeting of Kyiv’s allies to reaffirm support for the country and step up pressure on Russia to end the war, now well into its fifth year.“We believe that the protection of Europe, requires a global solution of integrated missile defence architecture to deter and defeat future missile threats,” said the joint declaration by Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Ukraine and the UK.“By bringing together our defence industrial base, our research, and our operational experience, we aim to build a shared anti-ballistic missile capacity for Europe,” it said.“We do this not against any people, but in defence of our own,” it added, citing the “unique experience of Ukraine” whose air defences have faced repeated Russian ballistic missile strikes in recent weeks. At least 25 heads of state were due to attend the Paris meeting, with some staying on for the military parade marking France’s national public holiday on July 14 which this year will highlight support for Ukraine.(AFP)
