Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on US President Donald Trump to accelerate the implementation of agreements concerning the bolstering of Ukraine’s air defense systems. Zelensky emphasized that Kyiv is relying on its international partners to respond decisively to ongoing Russian attacks.
“Every missile from Patriot and NASAMS systems contributes to protecting the lives of Ukrainians,” Zelensky stated, highlighting the urgent need for expedited air defense supplies from allies in light of recent Russian offensives. He underscored that recent Russian attacks demonstrate the critical need to speed up air defense deliveries from allies.
Zelensky met with President Trump on Thursday on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum, where they discussed providing Ukraine with additional air defense capabilities. Details and specific commitments from the meeting were not disclosed.
The Ukrainian President also reported that Russia has again targeted the energy sector, employing approximately 400 missiles and drones in a renewed escalation of aerial attacks.
Ukrainian officials reported that the country’s largest cities, Kyiv and Kharkiv, were targeted in early morning attacks, resulting in at least one fatality and several injuries. Military authorities had issued high alert warnings for missile strikes and drone attacks.
The Ukrainian Air Force confirmed that the attack on the capital involved both missiles and drones, amidst challenging weather conditions.
These attacks followed the conclusion of the first day of talks in the United Arab Emirates between Ukrainian, Russian, and US negotiators, aimed at finding a resolution to the conflict that has persisted for nearly four years. These talks are expected to continue for a second day.
Since the beginning of the new year, Kyiv has endured two intense nighttime aerial assaults, causing power and heating outages for hundreds of residential buildings. Emergency crews are working to restore services as nighttime temperatures plummet to -13 degrees Celsius.
Keywords: Ukraine, Russia, Volodymyr Zelensky, Donald Trump, Air Defense, Attacks, Negotiations
