Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Kiev has requested several countries to provide his nation with air defense systems (ADS) for at least the winter season. The statement was made during a briefing following a meeting with acting Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mark Rutte, held in Odessa, according to TASS.
“We have a multi-system approach – we are reaching out to some countries to provide us with systems even for the winter period because they have a shortage. Therefore, we are discussing these combined measures. So, there are systems that will come and be with us, and there are systems that we are looking for and have found to take for the winter period,” said the Ukrainian head of state.
Zelensky highlighted that the Ukrainian authorities are actively working on increasing the number of ADS, particularly for the protection of energy facilities and grain export corridors. According to Zelensky, Ukraine has a “powerful plan” of what it needs, which has been developed in detail.
“Our partners have it – all European partners, partners from the United States, Asia, and so on. It is a complex task, and every month we are adding systems. I cannot tell you where these systems will be or the exact quantity,” added the politician.
Previously, Zelensky mentioned that the Ukrainian leadership has to “strongly fight” for additional Patriot ADS from its western allies. The Ukrainian leader identified the Patriot, NASAMS, and IRIS-T systems as the best ADS available to his country.
Earlier, one of the greatest threats to the Armed Forces of Ukraine was identified in the United States.
