KYIV, April 15: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine’s top priority is securing more support from allies to expand air defence systems as Russia continues intense strikes on civilian areas and infrastructure.
Speaking during meetings with European leaders, Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine needs daily supplies of air defence missiles to counter ongoing attacks.
Russian strikes over a 24-hour period hit multiple regions behind the front line, killing civilians including an 8-year-old boy in the Cherkasy region and a woman in a kiosk in Zaporizhzhia.
Zelenskyy reported that Russia launched hundreds of drones and missiles in recent waves of attacks, targeting cities, universities, and civilian facilities, causing widespread damage.
In response, Zelenskyy has been visiting European capitals to secure military and financial assistance.
Agreements include a €4 billion defence package from Germany and €9 billion in support from Norway.
Ukraine is also pushing for continued funding to purchase US-made weapons, especially Patriot air defence systems, and for expanded joint weapons production with allies.
European defence leaders from about 50 countries, including NATO officials, met to coordinate further aid for Ukraine.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte stressed that Ukraine must remain a priority despite the global focus shifting toward other conflicts.
The United Kingdom also announced plans to supply 120,000 drones this year, its largest such delivery.
Ukraine has made some battlefield gains, with its forces reportedly retaking territory and conducting successful strikes on Russian military and energy infrastructure.
However, analysts warn that Ukraine’s ability to sustain momentum is under pressure due to funding constraints and shortages of advanced air defence missiles.
Meanwhile, Russia continues heavy bombardment, including drone swarms, ballistic missiles, and glide bombs targeting civilian infrastructure such as schools, sports facilities, and residential areas.
Ukrainian air defences have intercepted most incoming drones, but some still cause significant destruction.
Ukraine has also continued long-range drone strikes into Russian territory, hitting industrial sites and causing damage and casualties, highlighting the widening scope of the conflict as both sides escalate aerial warfare. (AP)
