Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov shared via Facebook that a new meeting of the contact group focused on Ukraine is planned for next week at the Ramstein airbase in Germany. He indicated that Kyiv would urge the United States to contribute more to air defense and missile defense capabilities. The post signaled Kyiv’s intention to press for reinforced support in these areas as the discussions move forward in the Ramstein format. [Politico]
Reznikov emphasized that strengthening air and missile defense remains the top priority for Ukraine. He noted that ground-based systems and missiles, ranging from portable air defense devices to large, powerful batteries, are always central to Ukraine’s defense planning. The minister said these topics would be raised in consultations with partners, particularly during the upcoming Ramstein-format meeting. [Politico]
Earlier, President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke on the margins of a G7 gathering, where he met Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Zelensky underscored the importance of boosting Ukraine’s air defense capabilities and providing Ukrainian pilots with training on Western fighter aircraft. This stance aligns with ongoing international support aimed at enhancing Kyiv’s defensive posture. [G7 Summit Coverage]
Prior to these remarks, Politico reported that the Ramstein-based contact group had been responsible for coordinating military aid shipments to Ukraine. The group’s activities, including past meetings, have drawn attention as Kyiv seeks more substantial and timely assistance in the security arena. [Politico]