British News Agency

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky outlined his country's defense needs during his speech at the 9th European Political Community Summit.

Zelensky said that air defense is Ukraine's top priority, emphasizing the need for interceptor missiles for Patriot and NASAMS systems. He stated that Russia plans to increase production of jet-powered Shahed-type drones and the number of attacks, stressing that ammunition support for F-16 fighter jets is also important for defending against these drones.

Zelensky said that energy assistance is also among the country's urgent needs and called for Ukraine to receive the necessary equipment starting in November and throughout the winter.

Zelensky claimed that speed restrictions had been imposed on the Starshield system in Ukrainian territories occupied by Russia, saying that the speed limit had been increased from 100 miles per hour to 161 kilometers per hour. He stated that these restrictions make it more difficult to intercept Russian jet-powered Shahed-type drones. Zelensky added that aircraft cannot be used in areas close to the front line, making defense against drones even more challenging.

Zelensky argued that the speed restrictions have allowed more Russian attacks to reach their targets and have increased casualties. He said they were trying to obtain details on the matter from the US side but had not yet received sufficient information. Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine would not recognize any approach that considers the occupation of Ukrainian territory legitimate.