Zelensky: Patriot Missiles Priority, Trump Talks at Ankara Summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky affirmed that securing PAC-2 and PAC-3 missiles, integral to Patriot air defense systems, represents a paramount priority for his country. Zelensky announced he would discuss this critical issue during his anticipated Wednesday meeting with Donald Trump. The Ukrainian President made his remarks during a joint press conference with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Tuesday, held on the sidelines of the 36th NATO Summit in the Turkish capital, Ankara. Zelensky highlighted the NATO Defense Industry Forum as a vital platform to showcase Ukrainian companies' capabilities and technologies. He noted Kyiv's ongoing work on international defense initiatives, supported by the Alliance, particularly through the "Ukraine Priority Needs List." The President underscored the absolute necessity of air defense systems to protect civilians and military, stressing his country's urgent need to boost these capabilities. He further called for increased pressure on Russia, more ballistic missile defense systems, and stricter sanctions against Moscow. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, for his part, praised Ukraine's remarkable successes in recent months, citing attacks on Russian energy and defense infrastructure. Rutte observed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is willing to tolerate tens of thousands of casualties, but also noted the slowed advance of Russian forces on the front, with Ukraine achieving better results. Rutte affirmed that bolstering Ukrainian air defenses and safeguarding its cities and critical infrastructure are top priorities for NATO-Kyiv cooperation. Post-conference, Zelensky and Rutte engaged in a closed bilateral meeting to discuss mutual support. Turkey is hosting the 36th NATO Summit Tuesday and Wednesday, its second time since the 2004 Istanbul Summit. The current global security challenges lend particular significance to this gathering.