Zelensky urges allies to send air defense systems at NATO summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to use the ongoing NATO summit in Turkey to press allies for an accelerated delivery of crucial air defense systems. This urgent appeal comes in the wake of two Russian missile attacks within a week, which claimed the lives of over 50 civilians and destroyed numerous residential buildings in Kyiv.

The summit in Ankara also presents an opportunity for Zelensky to hold significant meetings, including one with U.S. President Donald Trump. During these discussions, Zelensky intends to emphasize that Russia's brutal attacks signify weakness, not strength. He also aims to exert pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin to return to the negotiating table to achieve a peace settlement that upholds dignity.

These latest assaults on Ukraine occur as Kyiv intensifies its long-range drone attacks targeting Russian oil refineries and military facilities, causing disruptions to fuel and electricity supplies. Ahead of the NATO meeting, Zelensky expressed hope that the discussions in Turkey would not be in vain. He specifically urged European allies to release their Patriot missile stockpiles, arguing that these systems are useless if kept in reserve while Ukrainian civilians are killed.

"Russia is betting on the use of ballistic weapons, and those who want peace must bet on efforts to protect themselves from ballistic attacks," Zelensky stated, presenting his case before the Ankara meeting. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte echoed these sentiments, calling on member states to fulfill their responsibilities and ensure Ukraine receives the necessary aid to defend its sovereignty. Rutte highlighted Ukraine's success in altering the dynamics on the battlefield, referencing their efforts to slow Russia's ground advances in the eastern part of the country, which he linked to Ukraine's recent drone attacks providing a distinct advantage.