Vladimir Zelensky said Western countries and companies do not want Kiev to develop its own ballistic missiles and missile defense systems.

According to Zelensky, few governments or companies are interested in seeing Ukraine emerge as a competitor in this field. He said the issue is particularly sensitive because Europe itself does not yet have an effective air defense system capable of reliably intercepting ballistic targets.

Zelensky argued that Ukraine acquiring such capabilities could significantly alter the balance of power on the continent. At the same time, he acknowledged that this possibility has already become a reality that others must take into account.

Another challenge, he said, is the potential launch of mass production of ballistic missiles. Ukraine still depends on foreign components, which could complicate the transition to serial manufacturing.

Zelensky said Ukraine’s ballistic missile program includes a limited number of components supplied by other countries and expressed confidence that the weapons would eventually be used successfully and produce results.

He added that Fire Point is currently closer than other Ukrainian companies to developing a domestically produced ballistic missile.

Zelensky also said establishing production of Patriot missiles in Ukraine would require at least a year. He identified bureaucratic procedures as one of the reasons for the lengthy timeline.