US Approves Extended Range Missiles Transfer to Ukraine Amid Energy Sector Strikes

Ukraine is advancing its military and economic efforts amid the ongoing conflict with Russia, highlighted by the recent U.S. approval to supply thousands of Extended Range Attack Munitions (ERAM), enhancing Ukraine's standoff strike capabilities while imposing restrictions on deep strikes into Russia to avoid escalation. The country has intensified targeted strikes on Russia's energy infrastructure, including recent drone attacks on key gas terminals and oil refineries, aiming to disrupt Russia's fuel supplies crucial for its war efforts. Concurrently, Ukraine is deepening its integration with European defense and economic structures, demonstrated by forums showcasing Ukrainian defense technologies and efforts to open EU accession negotiations focusing on economic development and intergovernmental cooperation. Energy sector reforms aligned with EU regulations continue despite wartime conditions, facilitating cross-border electricity and gas trade to bolster both Ukraine’s and Europe's energy security and market confidence. Ukrainian officials emphasize the importance of comprehensive security guarantees and foreign investment to accelerate EU and NATO integration and economic resilience. These combined military, economic, and diplomatic initiatives underscore Ukraine's multifaceted strategy to sustain its defense and align closer with Western institutions during the conflict.