Zelensky Made a Statement Amid US-Russia Talks
The President of Ukraine stated that the country is experiencing a shortage of missiles for the Patriot air defense systems, putting cities at risk amid Russian attacks.
Photo: IAEA Imagebank, CC BY 2.0
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, stated that the country is critically lacking missiles for the Patriot air defense systems. He made this statement during a press conference, emphasizing that the shortage of ammunition threatens the security of cities.
According to him, every night, the Ukrainian command reports a shortage of missiles to repel attacks. Enemy strikes continue, but missile stockpiles are being depleted.
Zelensky noted that Ukraine is ready to train specialists and maintain the systems independently but requires either additional Patriot installations or licenses for ammunition production.
He also mentioned that he had repeatedly appealed to the United States to provide Ukraine with a sufficient number of air defense systems, but so far, he has not received a clear response. The issue remains unresolved, forcing Ukraine to seek alternative ways to strengthen its defense.
President Zelensky stated that intercepting six ballistic missiles required the use of ten Patriot missiles, costing a total of $30 million.
"To destroy six ballistic targets, ten Patriot missiles were used, amounting to $30 million," Zelensky told journalists before meeting with U.S. Secretary Scott Bessant, as reported by Interfax-Ukraine.
Additionally, Volodymyr Zelensky commented on negotiations with U.S. representatives, stating that the proposed document was unacceptable for the country. According to him, it lacked security guarantees but included the transfer of part of Ukraine's resources.
During a conversation with journalists, Zelensky pointed out that one of the key conditions—ceding 50% of Ukraine's mineral resources—could not be implemented. He emphasized that such issues go beyond his authority and the country's Constitution.
The President also mentioned that during discussions with Donald Trump's advisor Keith Kellogg, an agreement was reached to include the topic of security guarantees in possible future agreements.
However, he categorically rejected the proposed economic conditions, stating, "I cannot sell our country."
Earlier, it was reported that Volodymyr Zelensky discussed prisoner exchange issues, sanctions against Russia, food initiatives, and economic partnership with the UAE leader in Abu Dhabi. Read more.
It was also revealed that Volodymyr Zelensky and Donald Trump discussed peace, partnership, and prospects for cooperation between Ukraine and the United States during a phone conversation.