Trump accused Biden of restricting Ukraine on long-range strikes inside Russia, allowing it only to defend with American weapons. He compared it to "a great team in sports that has a fantastic defense, but is not allowed to play offense" and argued there was "no chance of
Fire Point built software to beat Russian electronic warfare after Western gear failed. Fire Point’s first cruise missile, the 3,000 km FP-5 “Flamingo,” carries 1,150 kg; early tests were pink by mistake. 5X
Since 2022, hundreds of defense firms have sprung up in Ukraine after rules were eased for startups to work with the military. Entrepreneur Yaroslav Azhnyuk calls Ukraine the “Silicon Valley of defense.” 4/
Terekh boosted Fire Point from 30 drones a month in 2023 to ~100 daily at $55K each. Its FP-1, with 60 kg payload, makes up 60% of deep strikes in Russia. Ex-French officer Claude Chenuil says Ukraine’s drones “will flood the market” postwar. 3/
Iryna Terekh says Ukraine’s edge is air warfare. The government spends $10B on local arms, with capacity for 3x more. Procurement chief Zhumadilov: self-sufficiency is key. Fire Point, founded by non-defense friends, builds cheap drones to fight Russia’s Shaheds. 2/
Ukraine’s Fire Point developed a drone capable of flying over 1,000 km, which struck a Russian ammunition depot in September. The company also unveiled a 3,000 km cruise missile, aiming to make Ukraine self-sufficient in defense and strengthen its position as a rising global military technology powerhouse, according to AP.
The talks show the tough task for allies weighing a peacekeeping force and more US arms for Ukraine. Coming after a White House meeting to show unity, one European official said Trump’s contradictions leave allies unsure “where that leaves us.” 5X
NATO Secretary Rutte briefed all 32 members as military plans adapt to various scenarios. The White House suggested Budapest for Zelenskyy-Putin talks. Despite Trump pushing for a quick deal, Europe says progress on peace is slow. 4/
European officials are skeptical of Colby, who earlier suggested a review that briefly froze US military aid to Ukraine. Pentagon’s Kingsley Wilson said Colby’s role was to relay Trump’s guidance. Europe views the talks as an “opening salvo” in costly peace negotiations. 3/
The US signals Europe will carry the main burden for Ukraine’s security and lasting peace. Defense official Elbridge Colby said the US plans a minimal role, leaving NATO allies worried they’ll have to ensure long-term stability themselves — Politico. 1/
