Zelensky calls on intl partners to increase arms supplies to Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said this in an online address to the participants in a meeting of the leaders of the UK Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), Ukrinform reports.

"The more successful our defense forces are, the sooner Russian aggression will collapse. Winter is now a crucial time. This is the time when decisions can be made, the results of which will allow us to outline the restoration of our territorial integrity and guarantee that Russian revanchism will never again cross the border of Ukraine, and therefore [the border of] Europe," he said.

Zelensky called on UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to increase the supply of air defense systems to Ukraine and to help speed up the relevant decisions of partners.

"A one hundred percent air shield for Ukraine will be one of the most successful steps against Russian aggression. And this step is needed right now," he said.

The president also asked Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre to continue the country's policy of defense support for Ukraine next year, at least at the same level as this year. He said that the NASAMS systems, which have already been provided to the Ukrainians, have significantly strengthened the defense, but it is necessary to increase the supply of such systems and missiles to them.

Zelensky asked Dutch Minister of Defense Kajsa Ollongren to provide modern armored vehicles, primarily tanks, in particular Leopards, Harpoon systems and other artillery systems. He also asked Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson to help strengthen Ukrainian artillery and increase Ukrainian capabilities in the defense of the sky by providing RBS 98 air defense systems and Gripen aircraft.

The head of state also called on Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia to continue providing defense assistance to Ukraine, and he asked Finland to provide 122mm and 152mm projectiles, means of electronic warfare, anti-drone countermeasures, and MLR systems.