Zelenskyy urges West to discuss missile defense for Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed frustration over the lack of support from Western allies in addressing the threat of Russian missiles and drones targeting Ukraine. During a conference in Kyiv organized by the Victor Pinchuk Foundation, he highlighted the inconsistency in the West's military response, noting that while allies are willing to shoot down missiles in the Middle East, they hesitate to do the same over Ukraine. Zelenskyy pointed out that discussions about missile defense often lead to a change of subject, indicating a reluctance among partners to engage with the issue seriously. Zelenskyy also referenced the double standards in international military support, contrasting the assistance provided to Israel against Iranian attacks with the ongoing missile strikes Ukraine faces. He emphasized that these attacks are not only a threat to Ukraine but also to neighboring EU countries, as some drones have already entered the airspace of Romania, Poland, and Latvia. This situation raises concerns about the broader implications of the conflict and the need for a unified response. Despite some discussions among NATO countries regarding joint protection of Ukrainian airspace, significant resistance remains, particularly from leaders like German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The hesitance to engage in missile defense over Ukraine stems from fears of escalating the conflict with Russia, which complicates the decision-making process for Western allies. As the situation continues to evolve, Zelenskyy's call for action underscores the urgency for a more proactive stance from the West in defending Ukraine against ongoing Russian aggression, which poses a direct threat not only to Ukrainian sovereignty but also to regional stability in Europe.