Ramstein, Germany -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for increased international military support for Ukraine during a high-level meeting of defense ministers held at the Ramstein Air Base in Germany. Addressing the gathering, Zelensky highlighted the urgent need for advanced weaponry to confront the ongoing aggression from Russian forces, particularly in the Donetsk region, and to exert pressure on Russia to seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Zelensky began his speech by acknowledging the contributions already made by various countries but underscored that additional assistance was crucial. He specifically requested long-range weapons to counter the Russian military's advances not only within Ukrainian territory but also on Russian soil. This strategic shift is intended to compel Russia to reconsider its position and negotiate peace. Additionally, Zelensky pointed out significant delays and gaps in the delivery of promised air defense systems, which he described as a critical shortfall in the current support framework.

The Ramstein meeting, organized by U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, included defense ministers and representatives from approximately 50 nations. The United States, a leading supporter of Ukraine, announced a new tranche of military aid amounting to $250 million. This package includes precision-guided munitions for HIMARS rocket systems, additional artillery shells, and both anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons. Austin emphasized that this support aims to address the evolving needs of Ukraine's defense and to bolster its capabilities on the battlefield.

Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder noted that the discussions in Ramstein also focused on strengthening Ukraine's air defense systems and enhancing the defense production capabilities of allied nations. Ryder stressed that Ukraine's security is integral to both U.S. and international stability, and the collective efforts of the allies are vital in supporting Ukraine's struggle for sovereignty and freedom.

The meeting took place amid escalating Russian military activities in the Donbas region, which has seen significant territorial advances by Russian forces. Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated that capturing the Donbas is a key objective of Moscow's military campaign. Since autumn 2022, Russia has claimed the annexation of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, with Putin demanding that Ukraine fully withdraw from these areas, as well as from the southern regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, before any serious peace negotiations can commence.

In parallel to the meeting in Germany, Zelensky is scheduled to attend an economic forum in Cernobbio, Italy, where he will hold a one-on-one meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. This visit underscores Zelensky's ongoing efforts to secure additional international support and rally global leaders to Ukraine's cause.

The international community's response and continued support are critical as Ukraine faces an increasingly challenging situation on the ground, with ongoing military engagements and significant civilian casualties, including a recent devastating attack in Poltava that resulted in numerous deaths and injuries. The Ramstein meeting and subsequent diplomatic engagements reflect the global effort to address the crisis and support Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression.