In 2024 , the Russian army launched thousands of missiles and kamikaze drones into Ukraine, and also resorted to the unprecedented use of guided bombs weighing up to 1.5 tons. It is air defense systems that can be a decisive factor in protecting Ukrainian skies, enabling the Armed Forces to repel aggression and force the enemy to retreat. This was stated by the Minister of Defense of Ukraine Rustem Umerov at the meeting of the EU Council on the situation in Ukraine, UNN reports .
As Umerov pointed out, the enemy does not choose means in its quest to destroy what it cannot capture, "resorting to shocking criminal acts against civilians and critical infrastructure."
This year, Russia has launched thousands of missiles and kamikaze drones, resorting to the unprecedented use of guided bombs weighing up to 1.5 tons, which can destroy everything in their path. These bombs allow the occupiers to move through the ruins
Umerov thanked the countries that have already provided or expressed readiness to provide the necessary air defense systems, in particular Germany for its decision to send additional Patriot systems.
Air defense systems can be a decisive factor in protecting Ukraine's skies and save thousands of lives, providing our defenders with the ability to repel aggression and force the enemy to retreat
According to him, Ukraine is also open to cooperation in the defense industry: joint ventures, investments, and localization of production, which will help not only Ukraine but also strengthen the defense potential of the EU countries.
"A strong partnership between Ukraine and the European Union is the key to our common victory and the return of peace to our continent," the Ukrainian minister summarized.