G7 leaders meeting in Évian-les-Bains, France, have agreed to ramp up weapons deliveries to Ukraine, including air defence systems and long-range capabilities, while signalling a new push to tighten sanctions on Russia's energy sector. The joint statement, adopted late Tuesday, expresses 'unwavering support for Ukraine in defending its freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.'
The leaders praised Ukraine for recent battlefield gains and committed to sustaining that momentum through increased deliveries of air defence systems, additional interceptors, and long-range weapons. This comes as European nations have already provided roughly €200 billion in military and financial support since Russia's full-scale invasion began in 2022, with an additional €90 billion loan set to start flowing this month. The United States has contributed around €115 billion.
Expanding Military Production and Sanctions
The G7 leaders also said they are 'ready to consider' expanding licensing for military production to Kyiv, which urgently needs US-made Patriot anti-ballistic missile systems. Ukraine has been pushing for a license to manufacture Patriot systems for Europe, a move that could reduce dependence on US supplies.
'We commit to increase the pressure on the Russian war economy. In this context, we will strengthen our sanctions, including those on the oil and gas sectors,' the statement reads. This aligns with the EU's recent adoption of its 21st sanctions package, which targets Moscow's oil sales and the so-called 'shadow fleet' of tankers used to evade restrictions.
US President Donald Trump said Tuesday that Washington would soon reimpose sanctions on Russian energy exports that had been temporarily waived, following a framework agreement with Iran expected to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and ease global energy supply concerns. The move could further squeeze Russia's oil revenue, a key funding source for its war effort.
The G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains has also seen rare unity on broader issues, including AI governance and economic security. The leaders forged a common stance on Ukraine, sanctions, and AI, reflecting a concerted effort to maintain Western cohesion despite internal differences.
Meanwhile, Russian drone attacks continue to target Ukrainian cities. A recent barrage hit Kyiv and Mykolaiv, sparking major fires, while another strike on Kharkiv's residential area underscored the ongoing threat to civilian infrastructure.
The G7's renewed commitment comes as Ukraine's former prime minister has argued that sustained US support remains a key leverage point against Russia. He noted that American military aid is critical for Kyiv's ability to hold the line and potentially launch counteroffensives.
European leaders have also been vocal about the need to counter Russian disinformation. An Estonian study found that the Mistral AI system is vulnerable to Russian propaganda, highlighting the broader information war accompanying the conflict.
The G7 statement is expected to be followed by concrete steps in the coming weeks, including new sanctions designations and accelerated weapons deliveries. For Ukraine, the pledges offer a lifeline as it faces renewed Russian offensives in the east and south.
