Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky at a Coalition of the Willing summit, Paris, France, July 13, 2026
Monday’s Coverage: Russia Murders 5, Injures 43 in Sumy
UPDATE 0658 GMT:
Ukraine’s drones have struck Russia’s Gazprom Neftekhim Salavat refinery, around 1,400 km (870 miles) from the frontline.
Residents reported explosions, followed by smoke over the plant.
The complex refines 7.2 million tons of crude per year, 2.7% of Russia’s total volume, and makes 150 kinds of products from gasoline to polyethylene.
The refinery was struck twice in September 2025.
ORIGINAL ENTRY: Ukraine and nine European countries have launched an anti-ballistic missile project for defense against Russia’s aerial attacks.
The integrated approach was announced at a Coalition of the Willing summit in Paris on Monday. It includes Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, and the UK.
We believe that the protection of Europe requires a global solution of integrated missile defense architecture to deter and defeat future missile threats — developed through collective effort, technological openness, and trusted industrial cooperation.
It will complement existing ballistic missile defense systems, including sovereign European solutions already acquired, or to be acquired by participating countries.
The participants will support Ukraine in development of the Freya missile, a more affordable equivalent to the US-made Patriot.
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky called for a package of 100 Patriot missiles per month as the Freya is being developed, ensuring that there are 300 Patriots for the winter.
Donald Trump agreed last week to a US license to build Patriot missiles. However, production of the interceptors is expected to take some time because of their complexity and the slow output of part by US subcontractors.
French Support for Cruise Missiles and Air Defense
French President Emmanuel Macron said he will allow Ukraine to produce French-designed cruise missiles and glide bombs as well as air defense interceptors.
“Earlier this afternoon, President Zelensky and I agreed on a roadmap between our two countries, implementing what had been agreed in principle last November regarding our bilateral defense cooperation,” Macron said during a news conference.
The agreement covers AASM precision-guided air-to-ground bombs, Aster air defense interceptors, and SCALP long-range air-launched cruise missiles.
Macron added that France will transfer radar systems to Ukraine. Kyiv has ordered next-generation SAMP/T air defense systems, to be delivered after Ukraine receives older versions of the system and an additional batch of missiles.
France also plans to deliver 16 Rafale fighter jets, beginning operations in Ukrainian airspace in 2028 or 2029.
