Official announcements from Western governments or defense departments

Zelensky Seeks $250 Million Aid, More Weapons at Ramstein Meeting Amid Kursk Offensive

Sep 6, 2024, 08:43 AM

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived at the Ramstein Air Base in Germany to attend the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting. During the meeting, Zelensky pressed Western allies for more long-range weapons and air defense systems, emphasizing the need for these capabilities to strike Russian territory. He highlighted Ukraine's ongoing offensive in Russia's Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces have reportedly gained control over 1,300 square kilometers, including 100 settlements, and inflicted significant casualties on Russian troops, with over 6,000 Russian soldiers killed or wounded. Zelensky also noted that Russia has redeployed 60,000 troops to counter the incursion. Zelensky met with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to discuss further military support. The U.S. announced an additional $250 million in military aid for Ukraine, while Germany pledged 12 self-propelled howitzers. Zelensky's visit underscores the critical juncture in Ukraine's conflict with Russia, as he seeks to bolster Ukraine's defensive and offensive capabilities.