Rome, June 29 (LaPresse) – “For almost the entire night, air raid sirens were sounding across Ukraine: 477 drones flew over our skies, most of them Russian-Iranian Shaheds, along with 60 missiles of various types. The Russians were targeting everything that gives life. A residential building was hit in Smila, where a child was injured. Emergency services are operating wherever needed. Sadly, during the defense effort, our F-16 pilot Maksym Ustymenko lost his life. Today, he destroyed seven aerial targets. My condolences to his family and comrades. I have ordered a full investigation into the circumstances of his death. Ukrainian aviation is heroically defending the skies. Thank you to all who defend Ukraine,” wrote President Volodymyr Zelensky on Telegram.
He stressed that “Moscow will not stop as long as it is capable of launching massive attacks.” Zelensky recalled: “This week alone, over 114 missiles, more than 1,270 drones, and nearly 1,100 KABs have been launched. Putin decided long ago to keep fighting despite the world’s calls for peace. This war must end. Pressure must be placed on the aggressor. Protection must be provided — from ballistic threats, missiles, drones, and terror. Ukraine must strengthen its air defense — the best means of protecting life. These are American systems we are ready to purchase.”
“We count on the leadership, political will, and support of the United States, Europe, and all our partners. Thank you to everyone who will help us,” Zelensky concluded.
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