Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a speech at the 62nd Munich Security Conference, emphasizing the critical importance of air defense initiatives for Ukraine’s military capabilities.
Zelensky highlighted the PURL program, which plays a vital role in supplying missiles for intercepting Russian ballistic threats. He remarked on the alarming reports he receives from military commanders, particularly regarding the depletion of air defense units due to extensive use in countering Russian strikes.
“Honestly, one of the worst things a leader can hear in wartime is a report from the Air Force commander stating that air defense units are empty. Empty because they have used their missiles to stop Russian attacks,” Zelensky stated.
The president expressed gratitude to European partners, including Germany, Norway, and the Netherlands, for their financial support in enhancing Ukraine’s ability to counter ballistic attacks.
In his address, Zelensky provided context for the ongoing conflict, noting that in January alone, Russia launched approximately 6,000 strike drones—predominantly Shahed models—along with over 150 various types of missiles and more than 5,000 aerial bombs.
“Yes, every month. Imagine this in your own city. Destroyed streets, ruined homes, schools built underground. This is daily life in Ukraine, of course, due to Russia over the past four long years,” he added.
The speech underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression, as well as the international support that remains crucial for its military efforts.
President Zelensky’s address at the Munich Security Conference underscored the critical need for air defense in Ukraine amid ongoing Russian attacks. He acknowledged the support from European nations while detailing the scale of the conflict’s impact on daily life in Ukraine.