WASHINGTON: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged for additional air defense systems to be dispatched to Kyiv in response to increased Russian airstrikes.
Zelensky made the appeal during a virtual meeting organized by the United States, focusing on reinforcing Ukraine’s air defense capabilities. He said that a pause in US funding had helped Russia seize the initiative.
Addressing the meeting, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin highlighted the importance of enhancing Ukraine’s ability to defend against aerial threats.
The meeting follows recent US congress approval of a $61 billion aid package for Ukraine, with the Biden administration announcing a significant portion of this funding would be allocated to providing artillery, air defenses, and other essential equipment to Ukrainian forces.
Zelensky expressed concern over the delay in US support, noting that it allowed the Russian army to gain momentum on the battlefield. Despite this setback, he remains optimistic about Ukraine’s ability to stabilize the front lines and advance its objectives in the ongoing conflict.
While the influx of weaponry from the United States is expected to bolster Ukraine’s defenses and potentially deter major Russian advancements in the east, challenges persist. Ukraine faces logistical constraints and manpower shortages, raising questions about its capacity to sustain offensive operations against Russian forces.
As the conflict enters its third year since Moscow’s full-scale invasion, the international community closely monitors developments in Ukraine, recognizing the importance of providing continued support to counter Russian aggression and uphold Ukraine’s sovereignty.
