Volodymyr Zelensky has reportedly written an urgent letter to Donald Trump, warning of a critical shortage of Ukraine's air defences. In the note seen by the Kyiv Independent, the Ukrainian president stated that Europe cannot keep pace with the number of U.S.-produced Patriot missiles needed, which are Ukraine's only means to shoot down Russian ballistic missiles.
Zelensky's Appeal to Trump
Zelensky asked Trump for help, noting that ballistic missiles remain Moscow's “last major advantage on the battlefield.” He warned that the current pace of Patriot missile deliveries is 'no longer keeping up with the reality of the threat we face', exacerbated by the Iran war making resources scarcer.
Escalating Russian Attacks
The warning comes as Russia intensifies its aerial attacks and threatens a new wave of long-range strikes on Kyiv. Zelensky emphasised that without immediate assistance, Ukraine's ability to defend its cities and infrastructure would be severely compromised.
The letter underscores the growing urgency of the situation, with Ukraine relying heavily on Western military aid to counter Russian aggression. The shortage of air defence systems has become a critical issue, as Russia continues to employ ballistic missiles to target key locations across the country.
