G7 to license Ukraine for domestic production of Western missiles and air‑defence systems

European G7 leaders and the United States said they would consider granting licences that allow Ukraine‑based firms to produce long‑range missiles and air‑defence systems that have previously been supplied only by Western manufacturers. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that “we are all currently producing too little” and argued that licences for European and Ukrainian companies could offset the shortfall. The G7 statement pledged to increase delivery of air‑defence capacities, interceptors and long‑range capabilities, and to explore licences that would enable Ukraine to build these weapons domestically. Ukraine, facing dwindling interceptor stocks amid intensive Russian missile attacks, is also seeking an additional $20 billion in military funding. French President Emmanuel Macron noted a “very deep change” in the U.S. approach, while U.S. companies would be able to grant licences to European manufacturers. The move represents an unprecedented step in the four‑year conflict, shifting from pure arms supply to fostering Ukraine’s own defence production capability.