Ukraine to Build Its Own Missiles as Zelensky Urges Tougher EU Sanctions on Russia.

Key Outcomes of the Fifth Ukraine–Southeast Europe Summit

According to UATV: At the fifth Ukraine–Southeast Europe summit held in Kyiv, President Volodymyr Zelensky called for stronger sanctions against Russia. He also addressed Ukraine’s missile production plans, emphasizing that the country aims to independently manufacture air defense missiles by the end of 2023. As part of this effort, a deal was signed with France and Italy to produce SAMP/T systems, along with SCALP and Aster missiles.

The summit also confirmed that Slovenia has allocated $50 million for weapons purchases for Ukraine. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić stated that Serbia does not support sanctions against Russia but expressed interest in deepening cooperation with Ukraine. Meanwhile, representatives from Moldova, North Macedonia, Albania, and Montenegro agreed to coordinate their efforts on European integration.

Collaboration and Support for Ukraine

Commenting on the situation, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković voiced support for Ukraine’s bid to join the European Union. Croatia and Ukraine signed a bilateral agreement on EU integration cooperation last December. During the summit, a joint declaration was signed by representatives from Ukraine, Albania, Greece, Moldova, Romania, Croatia, Slovenia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Bulgaria.

Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized: 'By the end of 2026, we expect to have the capability to independently produce missiles with a Ukrainian team.'

In this way, the summit marked a significant step in shaping a unified regional policy on security and support for Ukraine.

This summit highlights growing backing for Ukraine from Southeast European nations and an intensification of military cooperation in the region. The missile production agreement with France and Italy is a key move to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities and could greatly enhance its ability to counter external threats. The mobilization of financial resources for arms purchases and joint efforts on EU integration reflect regional partners’ commitment to supporting Ukraine on its path toward the European Union.