Andrius Kubilius, the European Commissioner for Defence and Space, has acknowledged concerns regarding possible delays in the supply of air defense missiles to Ukraine due to escalating military activities in Iran. In an exclusive interview, Kubilius confirmed that these developments could impact the availability of crucial missile systems needed by Ukraine.
“This is certainly a concern for us as well, given that missiles for air defense systems are currently in high demand from the armed forces of the United States, Israel, and various Arab nations,” Kubilius stated. He pointed out that the annual production capacity for American Patriot missiles is approximately 700 units, which presents limitations in meeting the needs of multiple countries.
Kubilius emphasized the need to ensure that Ukraine’s supply chain remains unaffected, describing it as one of the strategic issues currently under review by the European Commission. He is set to embark on a “missile tour” this week, visiting European manufacturers to expedite the delivery of missiles to Ukraine.
However, he noted that Europe does not produce missiles compatible with the Patriot system, complicating the resolution of this issue. In the near future, the European Commission plans to provide Ukraine with a credit line totaling €90 billion, of which €60 billion is earmarked for defense needs over the next two years. Part of these funds will be allocated for the procurement of missiles and air defense systems, including purchases from the United States.
Kubilius explained that this shift towards financial support, in addition to military aid from partner countries, is expected to significantly bolster Ukraine’s position. “While it may not seem like a major difference, I believe it is substantial. It allows countries that previously faced budget constraints to contribute more readily, potentially increasing the availability of their military stockpiles,” he added.
Currently, Hungary is blocking the final decision on the €90 billion credit for Ukraine. Kubilius indicated that there remains some time for a resolution. “From a financial perspective, Ukraine needs to start receiving these resources by April,” he noted, adding that efforts are underway in Brussels to unlock the funds.
“Both the President of the European Commission and the President of the European Council assured us during our visit to Kyiv that they are confident in achieving the necessary outcome,” Kubilius remarked.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has previously highlighted that Russian forces have employed both cruise and ballistic missiles during winter attacks. While Ukraine has received PAC-2 and PAC-3 missile systems from the United States, the PAC-2 is not effective against ballistic threats.
According to the Ukrainian Air Force, over the course of the full-scale invasion by Russia, the air defense has successfully destroyed more than 140,000 aerial targets. This includes 86 Kinzhal ballistic missiles, 709 Kalibr cruise missiles, 2,459 Kh-101 cruise missiles, 274 Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles, and 44,700 Shahed drones used in attacks by Russia.
In the summer of 2025, the United States and NATO established the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL), which coordinates the transfer of American weapons to Ukraine funded by European nations. According to Ukrainian authorities, contributions to the PURL program amounted to $4.3 billion in 2025, with nearly $1.5 billion received in December alone.
European Commissioner Andrius Kubilius has raised concerns about potential delays in supplying air defense missiles to Ukraine due to military activities in Iran. The EU is exploring solutions, including a significant credit line to support Ukraine's defense needs.