European countries agree to establish an alliance to protect Europe from ballistic missiles with Ukraine

Paris, July 13 (KUNA) -- Nine European countries, alongside Ukraine, announced on Monday the establishment of a “defensive” alliance to protect the European continent from ballistic missiles. The announcement came on the sidelines of the “Coalition of the Willing” meetings currently being held in the French capital to discuss ways to strengthen support for Ukraine and to deliberate on efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace. In a joint statement, these countries said, “Protecting the European continent requires a comprehensive solution, namely the establishment of an integrated missile defense system to deter and neutralize future missile threats.” The statement added, “Through our cooperation, by pooling our research capabilities and exchanging practical and scientific expertise, we will achieve our goal of developing European capabilities to counter ballistic missiles.” The countries that agreed to establish this alliance, alongside Ukraine, are Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. (End) S.A.M.