Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy received a $1 billion military aid commitment from Belgium, including 30 F-16 fighter jets over the next four years, during his recent tour of European Union nations. This follows a similar commitment from Spain, which will provide 1 billion euros ($1.1 billion) in aid for 2024, increasing to 5 billion euros ($5.4 billion) by 2027. Zelenskyy also secured an agreement for a Patriot air defense system from key EU partners, crucial for countering Russian attacks.

The European Union’s defense ministers met in Brussels to address Hungary’s objections to a centralized EU aid package for Ukraine. Hungary, under Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who is seen as an ally of Russia, has vetoed an estimated 6.5 billion euros ($7 billion) in military aid. This has caused frustration among EU member states, who view Hungary’s stance as a significant obstacle.

Zelenskyy highlighted the need for additional U.S.-made Patriot systems to protect Ukraine’s power grid and civilian areas. Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren confirmed that components for a Patriot system will be assembled swiftly. Meanwhile, Ukrainian efforts to strike behind Russian lines continue with drones, though Russia has improved its defenses against such attacks.

The conflict has intensified, particularly around Kharkiv, and Ukraine faces a critical need for more rapid deliveries of Western support. The delay in U.S. military aid has left Ukraine vulnerable to Russia’s larger military resources. NATO allies, led by figures like Jens Stoltenberg and ministers from Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Sweden, are urging a relaxation of the current ban on Ukraine using Western weapons against Russian territory, arguing that such strikes are necessary for Ukraine’s defense.