Zelensky Urges for More Anti-Aircraft Defense Systems as Russia Launches Missile Attacks on Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made an appeal to his allies on Saturday for more anti-aircraft defense systems after the country managed to intercept only 21 of the 34 missiles that Russia launched at dawn against three regions in the west and central-east, causing serious damage to the energy system.

Zelensky emphasized the need for political decisions and agreements to be implemented in order to intercept all missiles and drones fired by what he referred to as “Russian terrorists.” He expressed gratitude to the EU and other partners for their assistance, highlighting the necessity of air defense systems and a sufficient quantity and quality of weapons to ensure the country’s actions on the front line.

The announcement of $6 billion in military aid from the United States was welcomed by Zelensky, who noted that this would increase Ukraine’s access to Patriot missiles and drones to counter Russian advances on the Eastern Front. Spain also revealed plans to send Patriot anti-aircraft missiles with long-reaching capabilities during a virtual meeting involving more than fifty countries.

Zelensky stressed the importance of acting quickly and fully implementing agreements in order to stabilize the front and advance towards Ukraine’s war objectives. With approval for over $60 billion in new US aid secured, it is apparent 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.