Kyiv requests additional Patriot missiles from US, Ukraine's FM
Photo: Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha (RBC-Ukraine, Vitalii Nosach)
Ukraine is counting on receiving additional air defense systems from its partners. This includes the purchase of Patriot systems, capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, says Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha during a joint press conference in Kyiv with his German counterpart Johann Wadephul.
According to Sybiha, the Russian army is no longer what it was in 2022: it has gained combat experience, is using new technologies, and is actively developing its defense industry.
"The Russian army is no longer the army of 2022. They are also gaining combat experience, using cutting-edge technologies tested on the battlefield, and advancing in the development of their defense sector and industries. And this is a threat - not just to Ukraine, but to transatlantic security," the minister stressed.
He pointed out that Russia deliberately targets civilian infrastructure to intimidate the population and spread panic. That is why Ukraine urgently needs to strengthen its air defense.
"To prevent this, the key is air defense systems. We are grateful to our German friends for their unprecedented support in strengthening our air shield. And we continue to count on - and strongly hope - we will receive additional systems from our partners," Sybiha said.
He also revealed that Ukraine has formally asked the United States for additional air defense systems, particularly the Patriot.
"President Zelenskyy personally addressed President Trump with a proposal to purchase additional air defense systems - specifically Patriots, which can intercept ballistic missiles," the foreign minister added.
Separately, Sybiha emphasized that Ukraine aims to develop its own air defense production capabilities - and in this area, too, it hopes for support from partners, especially Germany.
"Another direction where we need support from our partners is scaling up our capabilities to produce our own air defense systems and build our air shield. This cooperation with our German friends will definitely be mutually beneficial," he concluded.
Boosting air defense in Ukraine
Earlier, Ukraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umerov named air defense as one of the country’s strategic priorities. He added that in June alone, the enemy launched over 3,500 missiles and drones.
Meanwhile, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak said that Ukraine's Armed Forces will soon receive new air defense assets to help repel enemy drone and missile attacks.
