Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the necessity of NATO membership while requesting expanded air defense support to counter Russian airstrikes.
According to AFP, President Zelensky stated on July 7 during the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, "Ukraine within NATO would be a source of exceptional defense capability." He further questioned, "Is it right for a country and its people with such outstanding defense capabilities to live without joining NATO?"
Zelensky noted, "While Ukraine can sustain itself in many areas, it requires the commitment of partner nations in the air defense sector." He expressed hope for a stronger commitment and concrete decisions regarding Ukraine's air defense at the summit.
The most critical weapon Ukraine needs is the U.S.-made Patriot air defense system. Zelensky pointed out, "The production of Patriots is insufficient," urging the U.S. to allow Ukraine to produce missiles directly through licensing.
He also stressed the importance of independent air defense capabilities in Europe, stating, "Europe must collaborate with Ukraine to establish a more affordable and mass-producible ballistic missile interception system."
However, Ukraine's NATO membership remains challenging. Some member countries are concerned that accepting a wartime Ukraine could increase the risk of direct conflict with Russia. As a result, discussions at the summit focused more on expanding air defense and weapons production cooperation rather than immediate membership.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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