Ukraine is still running short of missiles for its air defense systems, Yuri Ignat, a representative of the Ukrainian Air Force command, said on Tuesday, June 2.
Speaking to Ukrainian media, Ignat explained that only a limited number of such munitions are produced worldwide, while the number of production sites remains small. Because of that, Kiev keeps raising the issue of supplies with its partners, including in public discussions. Ukrainian military officials are also involved in these efforts and are trying to influence decisions on the transfer of missiles, he added.
Ignat had already pointed to an acute shortage of interceptor missiles for air defense systems in early May. At the time, he said Ukraine had to ask its partners even for small batches of five to ten units, while launchers in military units and batteries remained only partially loaded.
Against the backdrop of reports about possible difficulties in receiving weapons from the United States and delays in deliveries, Vladimir Zelensky turned to France for support. He said Paris was ready to take part in strengthening Ukraine’s anti-ballistic protection and air defense capabilities.