Air Defence Is Our Daily Need’: President Zelensky Appeals After Russian Attacks

Russia launched a massive assault on Ukraine using 430 drones and 68 missiles, targeting Kyiv’s energy infrastructure and residential buildings, resulting in four fatalities. President Zelensky described the attack as proof that air defense systems are a “daily necessity” and urged allies to provide immediate support.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday reported that Russia launched nearly 430 drones and several ballistic missiles at Ukraine, highlighting the country’s urgent need for robust air defense systems. In a post on X, he urged accelerated missile supply agreements and increased production of air defense missiles.

Zelensky detailed that the Russian assault included around 430 drones and 68 missiles in total, of which 13 were ballistic. Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted 58 of these projectiles. He emphasized that such attacks underscore the daily necessity of air defense capabilities, stating: “Every night of Russian attacks reminds our partners that air defense and missiles are truly a daily requirement. No missile supply agreement should remain pending—it must be implemented as soon as possible. Increasing the production of air defense missiles is a critical priority requiring our full attention.”

He warned that Russia could exploit conflicts in the Middle East to cause further destruction in Europe and Ukraine, calling for heightened awareness of the threat and enhanced preparedness. Zelensky stressed the need for Europe to develop production of air defense missiles, particularly those capable of countering ballistic threats, along with all other systems essential for protecting lives.

Zelensky also provided an update on the aftermath of attacks in Kyiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, Dnipro, and Mykolaiv, noting that emergency services were actively responding. While the main target was Kyiv’s energy infrastructure, residential buildings, schools, and civilian businesses were also hit, resulting in four confirmed deaths. He extended condolences to the victims’ families, reported multiple injuries, and mentioned that some individuals are still seeking medical care.