Ukraine ready to buy or rent air defense systems from allies - Ukrainian FM
Photo: Andrii Sybiha, Foreign Minister of Ukraine (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Ukraine is ready to purchase or rent air defense systems from other countries to strengthen protection against ongoing Russian attacks, stated Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.
Sybiha noted that in June alone, Russia launched over 330 missiles at Ukraine, including nearly 80 ballistic missiles. The Russian army targeted peaceful cities and communities. In addition, the enemy used more than 5,000 attack drones and 5,000 guided aerial bombs.
"This massive scale of terror demonstrates Russia's blatant rejection of US-led peace efforts and its call for an end to the killings as the first step toward peaceful resolution," the official added.
He noted that Russia can only be forced to stop the war by increasing pressure on Moscow and strengthening Ukraine.
"Such a large number of drones, bombs, and missiles, particularly ballistic, proves the urgency of further bolstering Ukraine's air defense. We need more interceptors and systems. We are also ready to purchase or rent them," the Ukrainian Foreign Minister stated.
The minister also called for increased investment in domestic production in Ukraine, specifically in interceptor drones and air defense systems.
Sybiha reminded that, according to UN data, the number of civilian casualties from Russian strikes in Ukraine has increased by 37% over the past six months.
Pause in US aid
Earlier, it was reported that the United States had paused shipments of Patriot missiles and artillery shells to Ukraine.
As explained by US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker, the decision is linked to Washington's desire to be ready for defense and to care about its capabilities.
