Frederiksen predicts bloody winter for Ukraine without more air defense

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has issued a stark warning about the potential consequences of insufficient air defense for Ukraine, predicting a "bloody winter" if Western support falters. Speaking to TV 2 and DR during a visit to Kyiv, Frederiksen emphasized that Russia would continue its missile and drone attacks, causing significant civilian casualties, without enhanced air defense capabilities.

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If we don't do it, then Ukraine will be looking into a winter where the Russians will be smashing away – also with ballistic missiles – and killing a lot of people.

"If we don't do it, then Ukraine will be looking into a winter where the Russians will be smashing away – also with ballistic missiles – and killing a lot of people," Frederiksen stated. She stressed the urgency of the situation, noting that "we cannot stand by and let that happen." The Prime Minister arrived in Kyiv by train on Sunday morning, joining leaders from Nordic and Baltic nations to mark Ukraine's Flag Day.

The visit occurs against a backdrop of intensified Russian attacks, with over 20 people killed in bombing and drone strikes in the preceding two days. These incidents highlight the critical gaps in Ukraine's current air defense, which struggles to counter the sheer volume of Russian drones and missiles. Frederiksen's primary focus in Kyiv was to discuss how the Nordic and Baltic regions could bolster Ukraine's air defenses.

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We cannot stand by and let that happen. So we need to get air defense in quickly.

While Denmark does not possess the necessary air defense systems itself, Frederiksen indicated that the country could contribute financially. "What we can help with is economics. To help finance some of this right now," she said. This financial support aims to expedite the acquisition of crucial air defense assets, such as the Patriot system, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has previously sought from international partners.

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What we can help with is economics. To help finance some of this right now.