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Russia's Latest Missile and Drone Barrage Kills Civilians as Ukraine Presses NATO for Stronger Air Defenses
Zelensky said recent Russian strikes and depleted interceptor stockpiles show Europe needs stronger missile defenses and faster arms deliveries, officials said.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged the North Atlantic Treaty Organization summit in Ankara, Turkey, to invest in anti-ballistic missile capabilities, meeting NATO chief Mark Rutte to drum up support for his country's defenses.
Recent Russian attacks on Kyiv have been exacerbated by a severe shortage of Patriot interceptor missiles, as the U.S. used approximately 50% of its Patriot and THAAD interceptors during the war on Iran.
Yuriy Boyechko, CEO of Hope for Ukraine, stated that Ukraine's defensive shield is fracturing, noting that mixed attacks using cheap drones deplete ammunition before ballistic missiles force command to choose what to protect.
As the U.S. steps back from commitments, NATO members are looking to Turkey to stabilize the alliance, with geopolitical analyst Yörük Işık stating Turkey's role is vital in plugging the gap left by the United States.
European nations, including Germany, Britain, and France, are ramping up defense spending to counter Russia, as Zelensky emphasized that Europe needs "affordable, mass-produced anti-ballistic missile systems as soon as possible.
Kyiv's defenses are again unable to knock down Russian missiles in the third attack in a week, while Zelenski calls for more air defenses at NATO summit