Shmyhal at Ramstein called on partners about the critical needs of Ukraine.

Shmyhal urged allies to accelerate the supply of Patriot air defense systems

The new Minister of Defense of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal, called on Western allies to expedite the supply of American Patriot air defense systems and ammunition for them.

He made this statement during a virtual meeting of the Contact Group in the 'Ramstein' format on Monday, July 22.

Shmyhal noted that shelling from Russia continues, so Ukraine critically needs additional means of protection against air attacks.

'I ask the USA to provide this weapon for procurement, and our European partners — to provide all necessary funding', the minister addressed the participants of the meeting.

He also stated that the transfer of authority in the Ministry of Defense after the change of leadership is happening in an organized and continuous manner. And Ukraine will adhere to all previous agreements with partners.

As a reminder, today, July 21, a meeting of the Contact Group for the defense of Ukraine in the 'Ramstein' format took place with the participation of defense ministers from partner countries. One of the key issues was the agreement on a military aid package for Ukraine amounting to 40 billion euros.

Earlier, Denys Shmyhal announced that the Abrams tanks received by Ukraine from Australia are already in service.