Two days after the massive Russian missile attack on Kyiv, in which 30 people died, the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, held a telephone conversation with the German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, focused on Ukraine's urgent air defense needs.
"Missiles for Patriot systems are currently the top priority," Zelenskyy said on social media after the call.
The dialogue focused on how to ensure a greater supply of ammunition for Patriot anti-aircraft defense systems. "With its missile attacks against Ukraine, Russia is playing its last card. It has no other options left to prolong the war," stated the Ukrainian leader.
Although Ukrainian air defense manages to intercept a high percentage of Russian drones and cruise missiles, it remains practically incapable of neutralizing ballistic missiles.
Merz reiterates Germany's support for Kyiv
The most effective protection against these attacks is offered by US-made Patriot systems, of which Ukraine only has a limited number. Access to ammunition for these systems has become even more restricted due to the United States' war against Iran.
Germany has delivered Patriot batteries to Kyiv and actively participates in the purchase of missiles for their operation.
From the German side, hardly any details of the conversation have been given, beyond stating that Zelenskyy informed Merz about the consequences of Thursday's air attack.
According to a spokesperson in Berlin, the Ukrainian president expressed his gratitude to the chancellor for Germany's support, particularly in air defense, while Merz reiterated his country's commitment to Ukraine.