Ukraine’s allies agreed in Kyiv on Monday to urgently strengthen the country’s air defenses, increase military support, tighten sanctions on Russia and continue preparations for a multinational force that could deploy after a ceasefire. The Coalition of the Willing gathered in Kyiv and by video conference as Ukraine marked the 35th anniversary of the restoration of its independence.JOIN US ON TELEGRAMFollow our coverage of the war on the @Kyivpost_official. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz chaired the meeting alongside President Volodymyr Zelensky. The leaders reaffirmed their support for Ukraine’s fight to defend its “sovereignty, freedom and territorial integrity” and condemned Russia’s escalating attacks on Ukrainian cities, civilians and critical infrastructure. They also condemned Russian strikes on Ukraine’s cultural heritage, including the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. The coalition reaffirmed Ukraine’s inherent right to defend itself against Russia’s war of aggression under international law and Article 51 of the UN Charter. The leaders also made clear that threats from Moscow would not deter continued military support for Kyiv. Air defense an ‘urgent priority’ Strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses emerged as one of the clearest immediate commitments. The leaders agreed to increase military support and strengthen Ukraine’s air defense “as a matter of urgent priority.”