Zelensky explains why he is creating a "Patriot coalition"

Volodymyr Zelenskyy insists that the creation of a coalition of Patriot system suppliers is a prerequisite for Ukraine to successfully pass the period before receiving F-16 fighter jets.

He said this when answering questions from Yevropeiska Pravda after the summit of the European Political Community in Moldova.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Western partners, especially the United States, for agreeing to provide Ukraine with F-16s, although, according to him, some partners had to be "pressured" to do so. However, he reminded us that the combat aircraft would be delivered to the Armed Forces only after a certain period of time.

"We need modern fighters. This is not just a matter of our defense. It is a matter of the safety of our people. But we still have to live to see the fighters. We will do it for sure, but we need protection for that," he said.

"Until we have the planes, we need more Patriots. Why Patriots? Because they can shoot down all types of Russian missiles. That's all. We have many other systems, but Patriots are Patriots," the president added.

Author - Olena Madiak, 02/06/2023