Zelenskyy Seeks NATO Air Defence Aid as Russia Intensifies Missile Attacks
As NATO leaders convene in Ankara, Türkiye, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to renew his appeal for additional air defence systems. The request comes at a time when Russia has stepped up its use of ballistic missiles against Ukrainian cities, according to a BBC report.
Ukraine has consistently emphasised to its NATO allies that it urgently requires more air defence capabilities to counter the growing threat. Last week, a Russian drone attack in Kyiv killed 27 civilians, prompting Zelenskyy to criticise delayed Western support. 'We are fighting alone. The victims are only Ukrainians. All we ask from our partners is that they do what they agreed to,' he said then.
It is important to note that Ukraine is not a full member of NATO, which limits the scope of military assistance it can receive under the alliance's collective defence provisions.
The Ankara summit follows one of the most difficult weeks for Ukraine's capital in recent months. Kyiv was struck twice in the past week, resulting in more than 50 civilian casualties. These attacks have reinforced Ukraine's longstanding demand for US-made Patriot air defence systems and interceptor missiles, which are seen as critical to defending against ballistic missile strikes.
The summit is expected to address Ukraine's air defence needs, though no immediate decisions have been announced.
