In an interview with the British Guardian published on Monday, the Ukrainian leader appealed to Ukraine's allies to accelerate military support and new sanctions against Russia, warning that delay could prolong the war that has been going on for more than four years.
— We need more and ASAP — he said, referring to the sanctions pressure. — I believe that we are very close to the moment when Russia will make a decision.
The Ukrainian president also called for stronger coordination of sanctions policy between the United Kingdom and the European Union, including the introduction of stricter restrictions on the Russian economy. “Of course we need more pressure,” Zelensky said. — If we continue like this… I think peace will come closer.
He also called for increased investment in Ukraine's military potential, especially in air defense systems. “We need anti-ballistic systems,” he emphasized. — Great Britain doesn't have them, NATO doesn't have enough of them. We have to work on this together.
Zelensky also noted that Ukraine's combat experience is now a strategic asset for its partners. “You can't put a price on this experience,” he said. — It's not a question of money, but of human life. We will share this invaluable knowledge.
Referring to Ukraine's potential membership in NATO, he said that Ukraine's entry into the Alliance would strengthen the organization itself. — Ukraine's admission to NATO is in the interest of NATO itself, he emphasized.
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Gaps in Ukraine's air defense. Zelensky makes an offer to the US and rushes his officials
Zelensky makes his appeal to allies at a time when Ukraine's military command continues to warn against critical deficiencies in air defense systems. Commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrski recently stated that Ukraine does not have enough modern air defense systems and interceptor missiles. He emphasized the need to use available resources more effectively and obtain additional support from allies.
Due to the situation, President Zelensky also appealed directly to his American counterpart, Donald Trump, and to the United States Congress, warning of the consequences of a serious shortage of air defense systems and requesting the delivery of additional Patriot PAC-3 missiles and air defense systems.
In response to Zelensky's appeal, Ukrainian ambassador to the United States, Olga Stefanyshina, said that Kiev is ready to finance additional Patriot systems and interceptor missiles if Washington agrees to provide them.
In one of his last speeches, Zelensky announced that Ukrainian officials have one week to resolve outstanding legal, financial and technical issues related to the purchase of additional Patriot air defense systems. He also warned that delays in this matter may result in personal consequences.
After a meeting with representatives of the ministries of defense, foreign affairs and security, Volodymyr Zelensky said that political agreement to purchase defense systems has already been achieved, but implementation is dragging on.
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