Zelensky calls in Granada for reinforcement of air defence systems

For the first time since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky has travelled to Spain. The reason for his visit is the 3rd Summit of the European Political Community, an event being held in Granada, where he is taking part along with other leaders from almost 50 European countries.

Zelensky arrives in the Spanish city with an eye to obtaining more military aid and air defence systems before winter arrives, a time when Russia is likely to step up attacks, especially on key energy infrastructure. 

"It is important for Ukraine to have defences for the winter, as there are many attacks of different types," the Ukrainian leader said, referring to Russian missile attacks, but also to Iranian drones used by Moscow's troops.

As the president himself has announced, during his stay in Spain he will hold "important bilateral meetings" on the sidelines of the summit. In this regard, Zelensky has already met with his Spanish counterpart, Pedro Sánchez, who described the meeting as "fruitful" and expressed his satisfaction at Zelensky's presence at the event. 

Madrid has offered new air defence and anti-drone systems to Ukraine to protect its energy and port infrastructure. In the same way, the Spanish army will teach Ukrainian soldiers how to use these systems.

In addition to Sánchez, Zelensky also met with French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.  

Ahead of the summit, Zelensky also stressed that "special attention should be paid to the Black Sea region and work together for global food security and the protection of freedom of navigation". Russia has stepped up attacks on Ukrainian ports since it abandoned the agreement allowing safe passage of shipments through the Black Sea. Since then, too, Kiev has been testing a new sea route in the hope of resuming regular grain exports, key to many countries.  

According to the Ukrainian leader, this should be "a productive day for Ukraine and for Europe as a whole". "We are working together with partners to improve the European security architecture, in particular regional security," he added. On regional security, Zelensky said that Kiev "has substantial proposals".  

This summit, called the European Political Community (EPC), was first proposed by French President Emmanuel Macron in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This event aims to foster dialogue and cooperation between EU countries and their neighbours. This is why this conference brings together both EU members and non-EU countries. This edition has been marked by tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan - members of the SPC - following the expulsion of Armenians from Karabakh by the Azeri army.