Ukraine has requested five European nations to release 10% of their interceptor missile stockpiles to alleviate critical shortages of air defense ammunition.

Defense Minister Evgeny Khmara presented the proposal via video call on Monday to counterparts from France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom, alongside Polish Deputy Defense Minister Pawel Zalewski in Paris. He stated that Patriot and IRIS-T stocks could be replenished through future deliveries contracted for Ukraine using foreign funding.

Khmara had previously floated a similar request for advanced Patriot missile deliveries last month. Kiev has also accused the United States of delaying interceptors, while U.S. officials cited competing military needs and denied any policy changes toward Ukraine.

The joint statement from the five countries did not commit to additional interceptor supplies but reiterated their support for Ukraine “by all available means – politically, militarily and financially.”

Poland and the Netherlands have confirmed they have no Patriot missiles to spare, while Greece has warned that aid must not compromise its own defenses. Germany, a key donor, has pledged additional older PAC-2 interceptors from its military stocks. Other European nations are reportedly withholding PAC-3 missiles to preserve their reserves.

This shortage has emerged amid an escalating exchange of long-range strikes. Kiev has intensified drone attacks on Russian oil refineries and retail warehouses over the summer in what Zelensky described as a “40-day pressure campaign.” Russia has responded with increased strikes on Ukrainian targets, labeling them as retaliation. Ukraine’s forces are struggling to intercept Russian ballistic missiles and faster, jet-powered long-range drones.

Additionally, Kiev is seeking additional financial assistance after exceeding its budget this year. Zelensky has requested European donors for at least €70 billion ($78 billion) to cover military and governmental needs; Western governments remain divided on how to finance further aid.

The European Union, which borrowed €90 billion ($100 billion) last year to support Ukraine’s government through 2026-2027, is facing internal tensions among member states. The Czech Republic, Hungary, and Slovakia have indicated they will not participate in a potential new loan proposed by the European Commission.