Zelenskyy: Our air defenses haven't decreased, but Russia uses more missiles
Photo: President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Getty Images)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy explains that the issue with Ukraine's air defense is not a shortage of missiles, but a significant increase in the number of missiles Russia is using in its attacks.
Russia ramps up missiles and ballistic attacks
Zelenskyy noted that Ukraine has received more air defense systems, but Russia has sharply increased its use of missiles, including ballistic ones. The Russian side continues to expand weapons production, sourcing components from certain countries and private companies.
"They are getting components from, unfortunately, partner countries, from the private sector. Nonetheless, their capacity to produce these missiles needs to be reduced—but that is not happening yet," he said.
Only Patriots can intercept ballistic missiles
Zelenskyy emphasized that the only effective defense against ballistic missiles currently is the PAC-3 missiles for the Patriot systems.
In this context, Ukraine critically needs an increased supply of air defense missiles and uninterrupted support from partners, primarily the United States.
Fighting the Shaheds continues
The President also pointed out that Russia has massively increased the number of Shahed-type kamikaze drones. At the same time, Ukraine has strengthened its interceptors and mobile fire units, allowing it to find effective solutions against this threat.
"In other words, we are finding the tools. In the end, we will defeat the Shaheds. We must do this; without it, survival is impossible," Zelenskyy stressed.
Key role of US and Western unity
The President highlighted the decisive role of the United States in countering ballistic threats. He stressed that timely deliveries and international missile procurement programs are critical.
"For PURL to work and for partners to help us purchase the appropriate missiles. Much of Ukrainian security depends on the unity of the US and Europe,” Zelenskyy concluded.
In recent days, according to Zelenskyy, some air defense systems in Ukraine were temporarily without missiles, but the necessary ammunition has already arrived.
At the same time, the Ministry of Defense noted that the country still needs additional missiles for Patriot and NASAMS systems to protect critical infrastructure from Russia's massive attacks.
