Ukraine Urges for More Anti-Aircraft Defense Systems as Russia Launches Missiles, Zelensky Reiterates Importance of Rapid Action and Firm Gratitude to Allies”.

On Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky again called on his allies for more anti-aircraft defense systems after the country managed to intercept only 21 of the 34 missiles launched by Russia against three regions in the west and central-east, causing serious damage to its energy system. Zelensky emphasized that political decisions and agreements must be implemented to ensure all missiles and drones fired by “Russian terrorists” are intercepted.

Expressing gratitude to the EU and other partners for their assistance, Zelensky reiterated the importance of air defense systems and a sufficient quantity and quality of weapons to protect the country’s front line. He stressed that terrorism must always fail and called for rapid delivery and firm action to achieve this goal.

The announcement of $6 billion in military aid from the United States, which will increase Ukraine’s access to Patriot missiles and drones, was welcomed by Zelensky. Spain also revealed plans to send Patriot anti-aircraft missiles with long-reaching capabilities during a virtual meeting involving more than fifty countries.

Zelensky emphasized that quick action is crucial in order to stabilize the front line and move towards Ukraine’s war objectives. With approval secured for over $60 billion in new US aid, it is clear that without this economic and military package, the Ukrainian Army would struggle to last beyond March or April. The challenging operational and strategic situation was discussed with US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and other allies during the Ramstein meeting, as shared on Zelensky’s Telegram channel.