In a renewed appeal on Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged Western nations and allies to supply his country with essential air defense systems amid the ongoing war with Russia.
In a video statement reported by the “Ukrinform” news agency, Zelensky emphasized the constant discussions with partners about enhancing Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.
“Partners have the necessary air defense systems, and they can assist in this regard, which is worthwhile,” Zelensky stated, highlighting the importance of protecting lives. He mentioned the immediate need for Patriot missiles and other systems in Ukraine to safeguard cities and communities.
Furthermore, the Ukrainian leader criticized the recent international sanctions against Russia following the outbreak of the war as “still insufficient.”
He pointed out that “every Russian missile used to attack our country contains components not manufactured in Russia but by companies from other countries.
There are at least 53 types of such components in the design of X-101 missiles, and the Kinzhal missile contains at least 49 types of components not produced in Russia.”
Zelensky revealed that a significant portion of these missiles are produced by companies in the free world and exported to Russia through various gray schemes.
He called for an end to such practices and those facilitating them, stressing the need for more sanctions and greater accountability for sanction evasion schemes.