Part 2/15:
In an effort to deter future incursions, Kyiv is now pursuing a multi-billion dollar military buildup. The European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, described Ukraine's strategy as transforming the country into a "steel porcupine"—a metaphor highlighting a hardened, almost impenetrable defense posture. Central to this effort is a NATO-supported procurement system designed to channel European funds into U.S.-made weapons. Ukrainian President Zelensky aims to purchase up to $1 billion in arms per month, with an emphasis on advanced air defense systems like the Patriot missile batteries capable of intercepting Russian ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, drones, and other threats.