Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged for more air defense systems during a virtual meeting with US officials, expressing concern over a pause in US funding that allowed Russia to increase attacks with over 9,000 guided aerial bombs.
The meeting, led by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, focused on enhancing Ukraine's air defense capabilities.
The call came after Congress approved a $61 billion aid package for Ukraine, which had been stalled for half a year.
President
Joe Biden's administration has announced the delivery of $1 billion worth of artillery, air defenses, and other hardware to Ukrainian front lines.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Russia had seized the initiative on the battlefield while they were waiting for US support.
With the new weaponry, Ukraine aims to stabilize the front and potentially make gains in the war, but the US does not anticipate a large-scale offensive against Russian forces in the near future.
Military analysts believe that the recent influx of weapons to Kyiv could enhance Ukraine's ability to prevent a significant Russian advance in the east, following Moscow's full-scale invasion two years ago.
However, it is uncertain how much pressure Ukraine can exert on Russia, given that they have been conserving artillery due to low stocks.
Additionally, Kyiv faces manpower shortages on the battlefield and doubts persist about the robustness of their fortifications along the extensive, 1,000-km front line.