Zelensky Calls for Increased Weapons Support

President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed Ukraine’s international supporters at a crucial meeting in Germany today, pressing for additional military assistance as Ukrainian forces face escalating Russian aggression in the east and intense bombardments from Moscow.

Following the meeting at Ramstein Air Base, which convened representatives from around 50 nations, Zelensky was scheduled to meet with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz before travelling to Italy. This gathering comes in the wake of a devastating Russian missile strike on Poltava, which claimed 55 lives and injured 300 people.

"We urgently need more weapons to expel Russian forces from our territory," Zelensky stated. He also called on Ukraine’s allies to fulfil previous commitments, highlighting the significant shortfall in delivered air defence systems.

Zelensky reiterated his demand for the removal of restrictions on the use of long-range Western weaponry, stressing the necessity of targeting not just occupied Ukrainian territories but also Russian positions.

The meeting at the Ramstein base, hosted by US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, saw the announcement of a new $250 million military aid package from the United States. This package is expected to include ammunition for HIMARS rocket launchers, artillery shells, and anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons.

“The package will enhance Ukraine’s capabilities to meet evolving threats,” Austin said.

Major General Pat Ryder, Pentagon spokesman, indicated that the talks would focus on strengthening Ukraine's air defences and encouraging allies to expand their defence production capacities. "Ukraine’s struggle is crucial to international security, and our continued support is vital to their fight for freedom and sovereignty," Ryder added.

The meeting comes as Russian forces intensify their operations in the Donbas region, with President Vladimir Putin declaring the capture of eastern Ukraine as his primary objective. Despite a recent Ukrainian offensive into Russia's Kursk region, which briefly surprised Russian forces, Putin asserted that it did not impede Moscow’s advance.

The United States has been Ukraine’s largest supporter, committing over $55 billion in military aid since the conflict began in February 2022. However, the future of this support is uncertain, with the upcoming US election potentially bringing Ukraine-sceptic Donald Trump back into the White House.

Germany, Ukraine’s second-largest supporter, has faced domestic pressure regarding its aid commitments, which have been a contentious issue in the ongoing budget discussions for 2025. France, another significant ally, is also grappling with political turmoil.

Prior to the Ramstein meeting, the UK announced it would send 650 lightweight missiles to enhance Ukraine's air defence capabilities by the end of the year. Additionally, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius revealed that Germany would provide 12 artillery pieces valued at €150 million ($166 million) to support Ukraine.