In the wake of a significant attack by Russian forces on June 2, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has called on international partners to utilize the unallocated European Peace Facility (EPF) to fund the PURL program. This initiative aims to acquire additional Patriot missile systems and enhance Ukraine’s long-range capabilities.
Sybiha’s remarks followed a night of intense violence, during which Russia launched a barrage of 656 drones and 73 missiles, resulting in the deaths of at least 12 individuals, including children, and injuring hundreds of civilians. He characterized Russian President Vladimir Putin as a war criminal resorting to terror due to military failures on the battlefield.
The minister emphasized that partners have the ability to alter Russia’s capacity to perpetuate its attacks. He urged immediate actions rather than mere condemnation. “There are concrete steps that can be taken. First, utilize the unallocated European Peace Facility to finance the PURL program and acquire additional Patriot systems for Ukraine. Promote an anti-ballistic coalition and increase investments in Ukraine’s long-range capabilities,” he stated.
Sybiha outlined further measures, including increasing pressure on Russia through new sanctions, travel bans on Russian military personnel involved in the war, and fully leveraging frozen Russian assets to enhance international isolation of the country.
He also advocated for strategic actions that have long been overdue, such as opening all negotiation clusters regarding Ukraine’s accession to the European Union. He stressed that Moscow must recognize that its brutal attacks will not yield the desired results and that the cost to its regime will only increase. According to Sybiha, the only viable option for Putin is to cease hostilities immediately, asserting that peace efforts will only succeed when backed by real pressure on Moscow.
On June 2, Russia’s military executed a combined assault on Ukraine, targeting major cities including Kyiv, Dnipro, Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Sumy. The Ukrainian Armed Forces reported that 656 drones of various types and 73 missiles were launched against the country. Despite the Ukrainian air defense forces intercepting 602 drones and 40 missiles, the attacks resulted in significant destruction and casualties, with impacts recorded at 38 locations.
In total, 30 ballistic missiles, three cruise missiles, and 33 strike drones hit their targets, along with debris from drones falling in 15 areas.
Ukraine's Foreign Minister has called for increased military support from international partners following a devastating Russian attack. He outlined specific measures to enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities and apply pressure on Russia.