Main points
- Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the beginning of the creation of an anti-ballistic coalition with European partners for the production of air defense systems and missiles.
- Zelenskyy held important talks with German representatives, discussing European support for Ukraine and its integration into the EU.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke about the beginning of the creation of an anti-ballistic coalition. Ukrainian partners in Europe have joined it.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy said this during an evening address on May 14.
What is known about the anti-ballistic missile coalition?
Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that the creation of an anti-ballistic coalition is really the strongest solution for Europe to have its own sufficient production of air defense systems and missiles for them, and specifically against ballistics.
The potential to counter other challenges in Europe already exists and is being scaled up, but regarding anti-ballistic missiles, we all need much more cooperation in Europe and other speeds – the speed of implementing our agreements,
– the president noted.
The Ukrainian leader also spoke about the important meetings he had on May 14.
“Representatives of Germany – the head of the Federal Chancellor's office and the head of German intelligence. A good productive conversation, and there are things that can definitely be the results of our communication. We will make our format of work in Europe E3 – Germany, France, Britain – even more meaningful, we are planning appropriate meetings,” Zelenskyy emphasized.
He also thanked Germany for its readiness to continue to assist Ukraine in protecting people's lives. The Ukrainian leader also discussed with German representatives how the European support package of 90 billion euros and the approach of our accession to the EU can strengthen Ukraine.
By the way , the director of development of the defense enterprise, a reserve Air Force officer Anatoly Khrapchinsky told Channel 24 that Russia has made a key bet on the depletion of Ukraine's air defense. Therefore, the enemy wants to increase the number of attacks.
What is the situation with air defense in Ukraine now?
Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated about the lack of systems and missiles to counter ballistic threats. The president emphasized that this is a critical weak point of Ukrainian air defense.
Yuriy Ignat, head of the communications department of the Ukrainian Air Force, also confirmed that Ukraine is facing a shortage of missiles for the Patriot, NASAMS, and IRIS-T air defense systems. The colonel reported that the existing launchers are half empty, and Ukraine is negotiating to obtain additional missiles.
It is worth noting that during the night of May 14, the Russians launched over 670 strike drones and 56 missiles into Ukraine. There were strikes with ballistics, aeroballistics, and cruise missiles. The main target of this strike was Kyiv.