Ukraine’s demand for stronger air defence is set to dominate President Volodymyr Zelensky’s message at the NATO summit in Ankara. His appeal comes after another wave of Russian missile and drone attacks hit Kyiv, causing civilian deaths and renewed concern over gaps in Ukraine’s protection system. Kyiv says the country urgently needs more Patriot missile systems, additional interceptor missiles and faster military assistance from Western allies.

Zelensky’s argument is focused on survival as much as strategy. Ukraine has been able to stop many drones and missiles, but Russian ballistic missiles remain one of the hardest threats to intercept. These weapons travel at high speed and leave very little time for response, making advanced systems such as Patriots critical for protecting cities, energy facilities, hospitals and residential areas.

Why Patriot systems matter for Ukraine

Ukraine already uses Patriot systems to defend key locations, but officials say the number available is still far below what is needed. Cheaper air defence systems can help against drones, but they are not enough against Russia’s heavier missile attacks. Kyiv wants NATO countries to release unused or spare systems and speed up deliveries before more cities face damage.

For ordinary Ukrainians, the request is not only about military hardware. Each additional air defence battery could reduce deaths, protect power infrastructure and help people continue daily life under wartime pressure. Ukraine also wants long-term support to build a stronger domestic missile shield, so the country is not fully dependent on outside supplies.

Trump meeting adds political weight

Zelensky is also expected to discuss Ukraine’s position with US President Donald Trump during the summit. Kyiv wants Washington to support a peace process that does not reward Russia for continued attacks. Ukraine is likely to argue that stronger air defence can improve its negotiating position by reducing Moscow’s ability to use missile strikes as pressure.

The summit may bring fresh promises, but Ukraine’s request will not be easy to fulfil. Patriot systems are expensive, limited and also needed by NATO members for their own defence. Still, Zelensky’s message is clear: without stronger missile protection, Ukraine will remain vulnerable to repeated Russian strikes, and any peace talks will take place under continued military pressure.