Ukraine Seeks Enhanced Military Support Amid Renewed Conflict

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with U.S. military leaders and 50 allied nations in Germany to request more weapons support. The U.S. pledged an additional $250 million in security aid. Discussions centered on enhancing Ukraine's air defense and artillery, particularly amidst Russia's ongoing offensive in Donbas and Pokrovsk.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met Friday with top U.S. military leaders and over 50 partner nations in Germany, pressing for increased weapons support. The meeting coincided with Washington's announcement of an additional $250 million in security assistance to Kyiv.

U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the dynamic phase in Ukraine's war against Russia, highlighting recent offensive operations and threats from Russian forces near Donbas. Despite an unexpected assault inside Russia's Kursk region, Russian President Vladimir Putin remains focused on capturing the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk.

Zelenskyy continues to call for long-range strike capabilities, urging Western partners for decisive support. Efforts are ongoing to source a substitute for Soviet-era air defense systems and to equip newly delivered F-16 fighter jets with advanced missiles. The Ukraine Defence Contact Group aims to bolster Ukraine's defense amidst shifting political landscapes as the Biden administration nears its end.

(With inputs from agencies.)