Ukraine is accelerating efforts to build European replacements for American air defence systems and SpaceX's Starlink satellite network, according to a senior official in President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's administration, as confidence in Washington's long-term commitment to Kyiv's defence erodes.
Ihor Zhovkva, deputy head of the presidential office, told Euronews that substantive talks with European governments and defence manufacturers are already under way, and that he expects results well before the timelines sceptics have predicted.
"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, an anti-ballistic missile programme unveiled in Paris in July, as a framework that has moved from political declaration to direct engagement between European defence companies. Ukraine, he said, intends to play a leading role in shaping the system rather than merely receiving it.
Reducing dependence on Washington
The drive for European alternatives reflects a broader recalibration in Kyiv. Tensions with the Trump administration have sharpened over Washington's pressure on Ukraine to halt strikes on Russian oil infrastructure, and over persistent questions about the reliability of US military assistance. Those concerns have been compounded by limits on Starlink access that have disrupted Ukrainian drone operations on the battlefield.
Zhovkva confirmed that negotiations on a European satellite communications alternative are also in progress, though he declined to give details. "European countries must have their own corresponding system," he said, framing both projects as essential not only to Ukraine's defence but to the continent's wider security architecture.
Asked whether such systems could take a decade or more to field, he rejected the premise. "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 would not specify a date.
Air defence tops the summit agenda
Zhovkva spoke ahead of a European Union summit in Brussels, where Zelenskyy is expected to press leaders for additional air defence systems, interceptor missiles and measures to shield Ukraine's energy infrastructure from Russian attack. Moscow has intensified its aerial campaign in recent weeks, raising the prospect of another punishing winter for Ukrainian cities.
"Every country that can provide such assistance, whether systems or missiles, should do so," Zhovkva said, adding that governments unable to supply equipment directly should contribute financially instead. His remarks echo appeals from NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, who has pressed allies to boost air defence for Ukraine.
Whether Europe can fill any gap left by a reduction in American aid remains an open question. Zhovkva acknowledged that despite significant contributions from Germany and other member states, European support still falls short of what Kyiv needs, and Ukraine faces a further funding shortfall next year.
Security guarantees and the EU question
The deputy chief of staff argued that European security guarantees must form the bedrock of any lasting settlement, built on sustained financing for Ukraine's armed forces, joint defence production and eventual EU membership. "The foundation of security guarantees for Ukraine is a strong, powerful army," he said. "Without a clear understanding that Ukraine will become a member of the EU, we cannot speak about full-fledged security guarantees."
His comments come as Brussels has opened new accession talks with Kyiv after Hungary lifted its veto, a step that Ukrainian officials regard as politically significant even if the membership path remains long.
Yet Zhovkva was candid about the limits of European alone. "They cannot exist without support from the United States of America," he said of the guarantees under discussion.
With Washington seeking to revive diplomatic efforts to end the war, he reaffirmed Kyiv's willingness to negotiate — provided European partners are present at every stage, including any eventual leader-level talks. "Ukraine is ready for negotiations now," he said.
