Croatia
Croatia and Ukraine have signed a Letter of Intent to jointly develop and produce weapons, marking a new stage in bilateral defense cooperation. Minister Ivan Anušić said Croatia “understands Ukraine’s struggle” and supports its fight as one for all of Europe.
Slovakia
Slovak company DefTech has confirmed its Wolf 25 AD air-defense system was successfully tested and deployed in Ukraine, offering dual counter-drone and ground-attack capabilities through its 25 mm Oerlikon cannon and AESA radar tracking suite.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia’s Federal Police have launched a manhunt for Matias Zubak, owner of the WDG company and buyer of the Vitezit arms factory, over alleged illegalities in its acquisition. Ukrainian prosecutors have also issued a warrant for Zubak in connection with a $37.6 million deal.
Czech Republic
Czechia will gift Ukraine a modern Earth observation satellite — the first country to do so — underscoring its commitment to Ukraine’s resilience and Europe’s security.
EU
The EU has mobilized €800 million to help Ukraine withstand winter energy challenges, enhance cyber defense, and support justice initiatives, including funding for a special tribunal and victims of war crimes.
Czech Republic
Andrej Babiš says his party would halt Czech state funding for arms to Ukraine while allowing domestic manufacturers to continue exports — a softer tone from earlier pledges to cancel Prague’s ammunition initiative.
Italy
Italy may invoke the EU’s new defense flexibility clause to unlock €12 billion in spending, part of its effort to reach NATO’s 5% target without breaching deficit rules.
Ukraine
Ukraine’s state-owned defense giant Ukroboronprom has signed new cooperation agreements with Spain’s Escribano and U.S. drone manufacturer LeVanta Tech at the DFNC3 forum, expanding partnerships in air defense, armored vehicles, and air-sea UAVs.
Forecasts
Europe’s rearmament push is fueling a decade-long boom for its defense industry, with revenues forecast to grow 10.5% to 11.5% annually as nations meet NATO’s 2035 targets. Germany and Eastern Europe lead the surge, while fiscal strains and politics could test the continent’s resolve.
Czech Republic
Andrej Babiš’s election win could shift Czechia’s strong defense stance and support for Ukraine, as coalition talks test NATO commitments and spending plans.
Romania
Romanian President urges EU to build anti-drone wall and democracy shield against Russian hybrid threats and election interference.
Romania
Facing repeated Russian drone incursions, Bucharest looks to Kyiv’s battle-tested UAV technology through the EU’s €150 billion defence loan scheme.