By Alperen Aktas
ISTANBUL (AA) – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Monday he held a “very detailed conversation” with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in New York ahead of the UN General Assembly, focusing on Kyiv’s urgent demand for air defense systems and missiles to counter Russian attacks.
“Ukraine has conveyed to its partners the urgent list of needs for air defense – systems and missiles the availability of which could significantly influence events and limit Russia’s ability to wage war,” Zelenskyy said on Telegram.
He noted that discussions included the PURL (Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List) initiative, particularly concerning air defense, adding: “Mark has already begun the necessary communication with other partners.”
The remarks came as rescue operations continued in Zaporizhzhia after a Russian strike with guided bombs hit residential areas, damaging 15 apartment blocks and 10 private houses. At least three people were killed, according to Zelenskyy, who extended condolences to the victims’ families.
Overnight drone strikes also targeted Donetsk, Dnipro, Sumy, Kyiv, Kharkiv and Kherson regions, with more than 140 drones, including Iranian-made Shaheds, launched at civilian infrastructure.
“The UN General Assembly is practically starting its work: leaders will gather in New York. This is already the fourth time Russia accompanies one of the highest annual global diplomatic events with killings,” Zelenskyy said, urging stronger sanctions, political pressure and accountability measures against Russia.
The Ukrainian leader stressed that this week’s diplomatic meetings in New York must produce “real strong pressure on Russia” and joint steps by Europe, the US, the G7 and the G20 to restore the force of international law.