Western European military leaders have backed Ukraine’s “Sky Shield” plan to intercept Russian missiles and drones. The program is aimed at Ukraine, but is likely to be applicable over any other country in the world.
The Russian drone incident that flew to Poland showed that Europe will not be able to withstand its defenses alone. This is because strikes on Europe give Russia a head start.
NATO partners will be able to use fighter jets to patrol the skies over Ukraine
The proposal envisages that NATO partners will use fighter jets to patrol the skies over Ukraine, protect major cities, nuclear power plants and critical infrastructure, and ensure European security. Analysts estimate that about 120 allied aircraft would be enough for such an operation.
It is important to note that Le Monde notes that this will not be considered an act of aggression against Russia. International agreements on humanitarian aid, nuclear safety and civil aviation provide the legal basis for such measures.
The “European Sky Shield” project for Ukraine, developed by the Ukrainian NGO “Price of Freedom”, has already received the support of hundreds of Western politicians and high-ranking military officers. The concept envisages the creation of a joint air defense zone over central and western Ukraine, managed by a coalition of NATO countries, but not formally under the leadership of the alliance itself.
European fighters will operate jointly with the Ukrainian Air Force. The priority tasks are to protect nuclear power plants, defend cities such as Kyiv, Lviv and Odessa, and ensure the security of vital trade corridors. The eastern regions, where active hostilities continue, are not included in the plan.
Proponents of the strategy argue that it will allow the Ukrainian military to focus on the eastern front, strengthen the economy and defense industry, and boost civilian morale. It could also increase pressure on Moscow to agree to a possible ceasefire.
