Ukraine requests Patriot Missile Defense Systems from US

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitro Kuleba stated that he discussed with his U.S. counterpart Antony Blinken the possibility of sending more "Patriot" air defense systems to Ukraine.

Kuleba, invited to the ongoing G-7 Foreign Ministers meeting on Capri Island, mentioned the meeting with Blinken.

In his post on his social media account regarding the meeting, Kuleba said: "I would like to thank the United States for its support for Ukraine.

We discussed joint and global efforts to send the 'Patriot' missile defense system and missiles to Ukraine faster. I appreciate Secretary Blinken's measures in this direction," Kuleba stated.

Urgent aid package

"We also emphasized that it is vital that the U.S. Congress urgently approve an additional aid package for Ukraine. This will improve the situation on the battlefield by providing Ukraine with strength and confidence." Kuleba added.

Congress faced a prolonged stalemate in its attempts to authorize military aid to Ukraine, mainly because of growing opposition among Republicans.

Former President Donald Trump's stance that foreign aid should be as loans rather than grants has increased the influence of isolationist Republicans.

Trump's statements have also raised doubts about America's commitment to its NATO allies in solidarity with Ukraine's defense efforts.

Source: AA