Following a request from President Zelensky for additional air defense systems to counter Russian ballistic missile threats, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth defended Washington’s current level of military support.
Zelensky’s Urgent Plea to Washington
President Volodymyr Zelensky has sent a formal letter to U.S. President Donald Trump warning of critical shortages in Ukrainian air defense systems. The appeal highlights a specific need for countermeasures against Russian ballistic missiles.
Zelensky requested the continued support of the U.S. Congress, citing Moscow’s explicit threats to strike Kyiv’s decision-making centers. He specifically asked for Patriot PAC-3 batteries and additional systems, noting that while allies assist with general defense, Ukraine relies almost exclusively on the U.S. for ballistic missile protection.
Hegseth’s Stance on Defense Aid
During the security summit in Singapore, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth addressed the request, emphasizing the increasing military contributions from both Europe and Ukraine itself. He maintained that the U.S. has provided aid where possible and facilitated greater European involvement.
Hegseth pointed to the scale of resources deployed, noting that European nations have stepped up their commitments while Ukrainian forces have demonstrated high effectiveness. He asserted that the Pentagon’s goal is to enable Ukraine’s self-reliance, adding that the U.S. is currently investing in drone technology by learning directly from Ukrainian battlefield experiences.
