Andrij Melnyk calls for urgent Patriot missile aid for Ukraine

On Ukraine's 35th Independence Day, Andrij Melnyk, Ukraine's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, has called for urgent military support from Western allies to counter Russian missile attacks.

Melnyk emphasized the immediate need for Patriot missile system interceptors to protect civilians and prevent mass casualties from ballistic missile strikes. He warned against delaying deliveries until winter, stating that the upcoming season could be one of the most severe in recent history if air defenses are not strengthened now.

In addition to military aid, Melnyk advocated for closing loopholes in existing sanctions to further pressure the Russian economy and limit its ability to conduct warfare. He also expressed hope that the upcoming election of a new UN Secretary-General in 2026 would address the ongoing security challenges facing the nation.