Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky renewed an urgent call for Patriot air-defence missiles after Russia reportedly struck Kyiv with 35 missiles (including 27 ballistic) and 185 drones overnight. Zelensky said only one ballistic missile was intercepted, which he attributed to a shortage of Patriot interceptors. He urged the United States and European partners to make the political decision to deliver missiles immediately, warning that delays cost lives.
Zelensky Demands Immediate Delivery Of Patriot Missiles After Major Strike On Kyiv
FILE PHOTO: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stands in front of a "Patriot" anti-aircraft missile system during his visit to a military training area. (is associated with: «After latest Russian attacks, Zelensky renews call for more Patriots») Jens Büttner/dpa
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky renewed an urgent appeal for Patriot air-defence missiles following a large overnight attack on Kyiv. He framed the request as a necessary, life-saving response to what he called Russian terror and urged Western partners to make a political decision to deliver interceptors without delay.
Attack Details And Zelensky's Appeal
Zelensky said Russia launched 35 missiles, including 27 ballistic missiles, and deployed 185 drones in the overnight assault. He wrote on social media that only one ballistic missile was intercepted, a shortfall he attributed to a lack of missiles available for Patriot systems.
We need answers to this Russian terror, real answers from the world, Zelensky said in his evening video address. He called for concrete support to protect civilians and critical infrastructure.
Why Patriots Matter
Patriot batteries are widely regarded as among the most effective systems for defending against ballistic missile attacks. Zelensky urged the United States and European partners to authorize and expedite deliveries of Patriot interceptors, stressing that missiles intended to protect people should not remain in warehouses.
The president warned that every day without this assistance gives Russia more opportunity to kill civilians. His appeal emphasizes both the humanitarian urgency and the political nature of the decision facing Kyiv's allies.
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