As Russia attacked Ukrainian cities with aerial bombs, Shahed drones and ballistic missiles throughout the day, President Volodymyr Zelensky held calls with the presidents of Finland and France, Alexander Stubb and Emmanuel Macron, and Norway’s prime minister, Jonas Gahr Støre. He also held a conversation with Andy Burnham.
His conversation with Macron came during a Russian ballistic missile attack on Kyiv. The pair discussed Ukraine’s air-defence requirements and wider support, while Zelensky said France’s backing was valued and that Ukraine needed fresh air-defence packages.
Across the calls, Zelensky raised the latest Russian attacks, the strengthening of air defences, sanctions against Moscow and coordination with partners on further action.
He thanked Stubb for a Finnish aid package intended to defend Ukrainian airspace. Zelensky also said Ukraine would receive ammunition for F-16 fighters in the coming days. He said the fighters currently enable the downing of ‘Shahed’ type jet drones.
Missile strikes remained a particular threat in the coming days, Zelensky said. He described the Russian attacks as particularly treacherous and said further steps were needed to ensure Moscow did not conclude that it could continue the war indefinitely.
In his call with Støre, Zelensky thanked Norway’s government and people for their assistance. In the conversation with Burnham, he expressed gratitude for support and condolences to people who had lost loved ones in Russian strikes.
Zelensky urged stronger British sanctions in response to the escalation. In his conversation with Macron, he said Russia should be denied further opportunities to prolong the war, and the pair discussed the easing of sanctions on Russian oil products.
Air defence remained Ukraine’s main priority, Zelensky said. The parties also considered steps that could contribute to a diplomatic resolution and began preparing for a joint meeting.
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