Ukraine is pushing ahead with plans to develop European alternatives to US-made air defence systems and Starlink satellite communications, with concrete discussions already under way and Kyiv expecting progress considerably sooner than sceptics anticipate, a senior Ukrainian presidential official has told Euronews.
In an exclusive interview with the Europe Today programme ahead of Friday's EU summit in Brussels, Ihor Zhovkva, deputy head of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's office, said Ukraine was seeking to reduce its reliance on American capabilities as uncertainty over Washington's support places growing pressure on Europe to strengthen its own defences.
"We are, of course, relying on the unique capabilities provided by the United States, whether air defence systems or Starlink," Zhovkva said.
"But Ukraine has already begun substantive discussions with European countries about a European air defence system."
He pointed to FREYJA, a European anti-ballistic missile programme launched in Paris in July, saying discussions had progressed to direct engagement between defence companies.
"We need a European equivalent of an air defence system," he said, adding that Ukraine intended to take a leading role in its development.
Kyiv is also pursuing talks on a European alternative to Starlink, with Zhovkva confirming that negotiations were under way but declining to disclose further details.
"European countries must have their own corresponding system," he said.
Zhovkva argued that both projects were essential not only to Ukraine's defence but also to Europe's wider security.
Asked whether developing these systems would take too long, Zhovkva dismissed such concerns.
"We have a clear timetable and deadlines," he said. "It will be much faster than ten or fifteen years, and even faster than five."
He declined to give a specific date.
Europe faces growing pressure to sustain Ukraine's defence
The plans come amid mounting tensions between Kyiv and Washington, including over US President Donald Trump's pressure on Ukraine to halt strikes against Russian oil infrastructure, and growing concerns about the reliability of American military support.
Russia has meanwhile intensified its aerial campaign against Ukraine, with fresh attacks on energy infrastructure raising fears of another difficult winter.
Zhovkva said securing additional air defence systems and interceptor missiles, alongside measures to protect Ukraine's energy infrastructure, would be among Zelenskyy's main priorities at the EU summit.
"Every country that can provide such assistance, whether systems or missiles, should do so," he said, adding that those unable to supply equipment should contribute financially.
Whether Europe can make up for any reduction in American military assistance, however, remains uncertain.
Zhovkva acknowledged that despite substantial contributions from countries such as Germany, European support was still falling short of Ukraine's needs.
With Kyiv facing a further funding shortfall next year, he stressed the importance of maintaining existing military commitments while securing additional European financial support.
Europe must have a seat at negotiating table
Zhovkva argued that European security guarantees should form the foundation of Ukraine's long-term security arrangements, identifying sustained support for its armed forces, joint defence production and EU membership as essential elements.
"The foundation of security guarantees for Ukraine is a strong, powerful army," he said, stressing the importance of reliable long-term financing.
"Without a clear understanding that Ukraine will become a member of the EU, we cannot speak about full-fledged security guarantees."
Yet despite growing tensions with Washington, Zhovkva acknowledged that European guarantees could not work alone.
"They cannot exist without support from the United States of America," he said.
With Washington seeking to revive diplomatic efforts to end the war, Zhovkva reaffirmed Kyiv's readiness to negotiate, while insisting that European partners must be involved at every stage, including any eventual talks between leaders.
"Ukraine is ready for negotiations now," he said.
"Europe, in the broader sense of the word, must be present at the table," he added, arguing that Ukraine's future security was inseparable from that of the wider continent.