About 80% of Ukraine’s territory lacks air defense systems capable of intercepting Russian ballistic missiles, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in an interview with the German broadcaster Tagesschau, UNIAN reports.
Russia has stepped up ballistic missile attacks over the winter months, using them in strikes that have damaged Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and other critical facilities. The limited number of systems capable of intercepting such missiles has made defending large parts of the country more difficult.
Patriot is Ukraine's only counter to ballistic missiles
“I will not say where our Patriot systems are located. But 80% of our country’s territory does not have such systems against ballistic missiles,” Zelenskyy said.
Zelenskyy has previously said that American Patriot air defense systems are currently the only platforms capable of effectively countering Russia's ballistic missile attacks.
The president underlined the high cost of ballistic missile defense, saying such systems range from $1.5 to $2 billion each, while interceptor missiles cost between $2 and $3 million.
Kyiv negotiates with allies for more systems
Zelenskyy said Ukraine is continuing talks with partners to strengthen its air defense network and secure funding for additional systems.
He confirmed that discussions have taken place with Germany, Norway, Nordic countries, and Canada regarding possible support.
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