Zelenskyy and NATO chief Rutte discuss air defense funding in Munich

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Munich on Saturday, focusing on sustained funding for Kyiv's air defense capabilities through the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) initiative. The meeting took place on the margins of the 62nd Munich Security Conference, where security challenges facing Europe have dominated discussions.

"We are counting on continued funding for this initiative, which enables us to purchase missiles for air defense systems," Zelenskyy told Rutte during their conversation, according to statements released by the Ukrainian presidency. The Ukrainian leader emphasized that every contributing nation's support is deeply valued as Kyiv works to protect its skies from ongoing aerial threats.

Defense Cooperation and Funding

The discussions also explored opportunities for strengthening Ukraine's defensive posture through joint ventures based in Europe, signaling Kyiv's interest in deeper industrial integration with European partners. Zelenskyy characterized his recent participation in the Ramstein format meetings as "highly productive," noting that allies have confirmed the allocation of approximately €38 billion in military assistance for the war-torn country.

This substantial funding package comes as Ukraine continues to face significant military pressure nearly three years after Russia's full-scale invasion began in February 2022. The PURL mechanism has become increasingly important for Kyiv's ability to procure essential munitions, particularly interceptor missiles for the various air defense systems supplied by Western partners.

Unity and Elections

Addressing the Munich Security Forum, Zelenskyy described European solidarity as the "best interceptor" against contemporary threats, framing collective action as essential to countering aggression. He also addressed the sensitive question of electoral politics during wartime, insisting that national elections in Ukraine can only be organized approximately two months after a ceasefire agreement with Russia is declared and implemented.

The Ukrainian leader's comments come amid discussions in some Western capitals about the appropriateness of holding elections in Ukraine despite ongoing hostilities. Ukrainian law currently prohibits elections under martial law, which has been in effect since the invasion began, and Zelenskyy's remarks suggest no immediate plans to alter that framework without a significant change in the security situation.