Volodymyr Zelensky called on Nato allies to shoot down Russian missiles if they are not prepared to provide Ukraine with more air defence systems.
The president issued the plea as he called on Western allies to boost military aid to his country as Russia puts Ukraine under pressure along the frontline in the northeast, east and south of the country.
“You can’t provide that right now? Ok…returning to the planes that you have on the territory of neighbouring Nato countries: raise them up ... shoot down targets, protect civilians,” he said.
Elsewhere, Germany’s foreign minister on Tuesday visited Kyiv in the latest display of support for Ukraine by its Western partners, although deliveries of promised weapons and ammunition from Nato countries like Germany have been slow and have left Ukraine vulnerable to a recent Russian push along parts of the front line.
Annalena Baerbock renewed Berlin’s calls for partners to send more air defense systems, as Russia pounds Ukraine with missiles, glide bombs and rockets.