Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on May 29 that intelligence indicates Russia is preparing for a new large-scale attack. He emphasized the importance of heeding air raid alerts and highlighted the need to bolster Ukraine’s air defense systems.
Zelensky stated, “The theme of air defense and the necessity to continue assisting Ukraine in protecting its skies is our key priority.” He expressed gratitude to international partners for their support, particularly mentioning the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) initiative, which aims to involve both the United States and European nations.
He noted that funds from European allies and other friends are being gathered to procure missiles, specifically for the Patriot systems, and underscored that sufficient supply relies heavily on American support. “We hope that Ukraine will be heard,” he added.
During the announcement, Zelensky referred to a report from Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, stressing that diplomatic representatives must focus on achieving results in supporting Ukraine. He mentioned a recent decision by Japan regarding PURL and indicated that further developments are being prepared in Europe to establish an independent European anti-ballistic system. Important meetings and negotiations are scheduled in the coming weeks to advance these efforts.
Earlier on the same day, Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed a commitment of $14.6 million (approximately 2.2 billion yen) to the PURL initiative, which is designed to facilitate the purchase of American military equipment through Ukrainian partners.
Zelensky had previously highlighted the critical need for enhanced air defense during a meeting with U.S. Congress representatives Richard Blumenthal and Jim Himes on May 27. Reports indicate that he also sent a letter to the U.S. President and Congress detailing a growing shortage of air defense systems capable of intercepting missiles, particularly ballistic missile countermeasures, amid threats from the Russian Foreign Ministry.
In this letter, it was noted that Ukraine relies almost exclusively on the United States for ballistic missile defense, specifically referencing the PAC-3 missiles for the Patriot systems. As of now, there has been no response from Washington regarding this correspondence.
President Zelensky has called for enhanced air defense in Ukraine amid warnings of a potential new Russian attack. He highlighted international support, particularly from the U.S. and Japan, to bolster Ukraine's military capabilities.