Europe Just Built the Shield Putin Feared

On July 13th, 2026, Ukraine and nine European countries (Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, UK) launched a defensive anti-ballistic missile coalition. This initiative aims to combine industrial research and operational expertise to build a shared missile defense capability for Europe. French President Macron stated that Ukraine would receive Raphael fighters in 2028-2029 and licenses to produce Aster 30 missiles for SAMP-T, AASM guided bombs, and Scalp cruise missiles. Ukrainian President Zelensky emphasized the current lack of ballistic missile interceptors but mentioned a developed anti-ballistic missile and stated that a joint system could be built within 12 months. SAM-T missiles are expected in weeks for short-term defense.

Zelensky stressed the importance of preparing for the next winter now, stating that the fight would continue. He called for a 'winter package of air defense missiles,' specifically requesting 100 Patriot missiles per month (300 for the winter) to mitigate Russian attacks on the electrical grid, similar to the previous year. Zelensky believes strong anti-ballistic capabilities are crucial to ending the war and bringing Putin to the negotiating table. He also noted that the Freya anti-ballistic missile system, which Ukraine is finalizing, is intended to supplement existing defenses, create a strong shield over Europe, and be developed faster and at a lower cost, especially with contributions from European partners for components.

The Economist published an article by a Russian oligarch, Andre Milanchenko, titled initially 'The Man Who Could Change Russia,' which was later expanded to 'The Putinist who could preserve the Russian empire.' This article was criticized by Gary Kasparov and Dennis Stillerman for not condemning Russia's actions and for framing the oligarch's views as genuine opposition. Critics argued that such articles aim to convince the West that Russia's defeat is dangerous, playing on fears of Russia breaking up into chaotic republics with nuclear weapons. They asserted that this is a coordinated information operation by the Kremlin to pressure the victim (Ukraine) rather than the aggressor (Russia), suggesting that 'good Russia' does not exist, only an imperial machine that changes tools when it faces weakness.

Kaja Kallas discussed the ongoing efforts for the 21st sanctions package against Russia. There are disagreements within the EU, with some proposals, such as sanctioning the head of the Russian Orthodox Church and the chief of Russia’s largest private oil company, being vetoed (the latter by Bulgaria). Europe has also controversially provided Russia with 6 billion euros by purchasing record amounts of gas from a key Siberian plant in the first half of the year, with France, Belgium, and Spain being major buyers, despite efforts to taper off reliance.

Germany will finance the production of 50,000 Shrike FPV drones for Ukraine. The Ukrainian company Skyfall will manufacture these drones, and the German firm Aarion will equip them with software and targeting modules. The Shrike 10 drone notably shot down a Russian Mi-8 helicopter, and its variant, the Shrike 10F, scored 99.3 out of 100 points in the American drone dominance program, highlighting its advanced capabilities. A video showcased the drone's ability to launch from water and perform complex maneuvers.

President Zelensky implemented an unexpected cabinet shuffle, which is attributed to declining popularity amid war fatigue and political scandals. It's speculated that the Prime Minister might transition to a high-level ambassadorial role. Meanwhile, Zelensky criticized Russia's leadership as 'crazy over war.' Russia's average oil refining rate has decreased to its lowest level since March 2005, though Putin, despite acknowledging 'certain problems,' forecasts gradual improvement in the energy sector.

The video briefly references the recent passing of Lindsey Graham and a discussion on whether Russia was involved. It then details Graham's strategy for influencing Donald Trump: appealing to Trump's competitiveness by suggesting that former President Obama would have done the opposite. Representative McCall from Texas noted that Trump 'likes winners' and expressed that Trump's strong showing of support for Ukraine at the NATO summit was the 'right decision,' aligning with moral clarity and historical perspective. McCall also reiterated that Zelensky is open to a ceasefire, while Putin is not.

A fascinating connection between Iran and Ukraine was highlighted: Iran supplies drones to Russia, which are used against Ukraine, while Ukraine supplied drone technology to the US, which then used it against Iran. The US Central Command announced the first combat use of American unmanned surface vessels (three Corsair naval drones) to strike a facility at the Bandar Abbas naval base in southern Iran, marking a new era in naval warfare.

The video concluded by referencing a past sentiment that 'Ukraine has no cards,' noting that 500 days later, Ukraine now holds a stronger hand. The speaker questioned the audience about their past and current optimism regarding Ukraine's position.