Ukraine updates: Zelenskyy thanks Germany for Patriot system

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hailed US President Joe Biden’s “tough but strong” decision to drop out of the presidential race, thanking him for his critical “unwavering support” for Ukraine.

“Many strong decisions have been made in recent years and they will be remembered as bold steps taken by President Biden in response to challenging times. And we respect today’s tough but strong decision,” Zelenskyy said on X, formerly Twitter.

Zelenskyy said his country would always be grateful for Biden.

“The current situation in Ukraine and all of Europe is no less challenging, and we sincerely hope that America’s continued strong leadership will prevent Russian evil from succeeding or making its aggression pay off.”

Zelenskyy has also spoken to Republican candidate Donald Trump on the phone this weekend, saying that Ukraine would always be grateful for US help in strengthening Kyiv’s ability “to resist Russian terrors.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has celebrated the arrival of another German Patriot system, bringing the total Kyiv has thus far received up to three.

“The German Patriot has arrived,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address. He added that it has likely reported readiness for deployment. 

“We will be able to do more in the sky,” Zelenskyy added. “Of course, there is still much to be done, and protection is by no means guaranteed, but it is nevertheless a gain for Ukraine.”

Zelenskyy has recently repeatedly highlighted the need for additional air-defense systems, as Russia presses forward with its ongoing invasion. 

rm/wd (Reuters, AP, AFP, dpa)