In a recent statement, UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps called for international support to bolster Ukraine's air defenses.
This appeal came just a day after the UK pledged hundreds of anti-air missiles to Kyiv, following a devastating wave of Russian attacks on December 29 that resulted in at least 39 deaths and over 160 injuries across multiple regions of Ukraine.
Shapps emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating,
"Ukraine cannot be left to defend itself alone from a despot like (Vladimir) Putin. So now is the time to ramp up our support." He added that the world must follow the UK's lead in providing air defense support to Ukraine, as it would ultimately benefit global liberty and reduce expenses in the long run.
Ukraine has been seeking additional air defense systems to counter intensified Russian attacks, especially during the winter.
President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the strengthening of Ukraine's air defense capabilities thanks to allied supplies and anticipated the arrival of more systems this winter. Germany is expected to provide another Patriot air defense system, adding to the three systems Ukraine received from Berlin and Washington in 2023.
The call for enhanced air defense support highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine and the critical role of international cooperation in addressing the threats posed by Russia's military aggression.
