Zelensky says Ukraine is ready to purchase Patriot interceptor missiles

Zelensky on buying ballistic-missile interceptors

According to 5 канал: After a massive combined Russian attack on Kyiv killed 14 people and injured more than 40, President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine is prepared to buy anti-ballistic missiles from its allies to bolster its air defenses, including interceptors for Patriot systems. He made clear that such arms supplies need not be charity, because Kyiv is willing to pay, and he called on partners-especially the United States-to make the necessary political decisions to allow those purchases.

"At every level, we are communicating what we need and showing that partners are able to provide it. This is not about gifts. Ukraine is ready to acquire weapons. What is needed is the right political decision from our partners, above all in the United States."

Air-defense difficulties after the latest strike

During the latest attack on Kyiv, which continued overnight and into the morning, Ukrainian air defenses managed to shoot down about 90 percent of incoming cruise missiles. But according to Zelensky, the situation is far worse when it comes to ballistic missiles.

"For much of today, work went on in Kyiv and the surrounding area-in Boryspil and Brovary-after the Russian strike. It was a combined attack: many ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones. Ballistic threats are the most difficult we face right now. We need Patriot missiles, and only our partners can supply them."

The death toll in the capital climbed to 14 after a woman's body was found in the Solomianskyi district. Ivan Vyhivskyi confirmed that 14 people were killed and more than 40 wounded in Kyiv and the Kyiv region. Emergency and cleanup operations continued, with the city remaining tense.

Zelensky's statement underscores how acute the security situation in Ukraine has become, especially in light of the latest attacks. His appeal for allied-supplied anti-ballistic missiles shows that Kyiv is ready to adjust its defensive strategy and pursue new ways to counter threats. This approach could also influence future international relations and the flow of Western military support to Ukraine.

In light of the recent attacks, the urgency for enhanced air defense capabilities has become even more pronounced. President Zelensky's discussions with international leaders, including conversations about missile supplies, highlight the critical need for Ukraine to secure advanced weaponry to protect its skies from further assaults.