Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy urged U.S. President Donald Trump to help with air defense systems and interceptors as Russia threatens new strikes, saying ballistic missiles remain Moscow's 'last major advantage on the battlefield.'
In a letter to Trump and Congress, Zelenskiy wrote: 'I ask for your help in protecting Ukraine's skies from Russian missiles. We are ready to purchase the Patriot systems and interceptor missiles we need.'
Ukraine's only means to shoot down Russian ballistic missiles is U.S.-made interceptors for the Patriot. Throughout four years of war, Kyiv has been short of interceptors.
'For a nation fighting for its survival, there is hardly anything more painful than seeing Patriot batteries with no missiles loaded,' Zelenskiy added.
He emphasized that protection from ballistic missiles is critical for peace talks. 'As long as Russia relies on missiles, its interest in diplomacy is not genuine.'
On Sunday, Russia launched 30 ballistic missiles, and only 11 were intercepted. Zelenskiy said Moscow also fired two nuclear-capable Oreshnik missiles.
