Appeal to the West

Zelensky: hesitation over military aid “unacceptable”

Ukraine President Volodymyr Selenskyj(Bild: APA/ROLAND SCHLAGER)

President Zelenskyi has described the West's reluctance to provide military aid to Ukraine following the Russian airstrike in Kharkiv as unacceptable. A new air defense system could fundamentally change the situation. He expressed his gratitude to countries that are looking for ways to help Ukraine.

"It is completely unacceptable that so many countries in the world are still thinking about how they can counter terror, when all it takes is a few political decisions." Stronger air defense for Kharkiv and the region of the same name as well as the Sumy region and the southern regions is an "absolutely urgent necessity".

Ukraine is demanding more air defense systems, such as the US Patriot, on an almost daily basis to better protect its cities from Russian attacks. An aid package for Ukraine worth billions has been stalled in the US Congress for several months. 

Ukraine President Volodymyr Selenskyj(Bild: APA/ROLAND SCHLAGER)

"Disgusting Russian tactics"
The President recalled that one person had died in a Russian drone attack on a residential area on Thursday; when the rescue services arrived, a second airstrike had taken place. Three emergency workers died. "This is a disgusting Russian tactic," said Selenskyj.

In his video address, Zelensky also said that the situation on the ground was stabilizing. The occupying forces are being prevented from advancing any further, he said. "Given the shortage of ammunition and the significant slowdown in supplies, these results are really good."

Selensky also said that Ukraine was becoming stronger in the production of drones and electronic warfare equipment. Work is also underway on a missile program to strengthen the military operations of the armed forces in this area.

Attacks on health workers
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there have been numerous attacks on healthcare workers in ambulances and other healthcare transports during the war in Ukraine in recent months. Many emergency teams have come under fire either on the way to a mission or at their bases.

"This is a frightening pattern"
According to the WHO, 68 attacks on healthcare facilities were recorded in the first quarter, twelve of which were aimed at the emergency services. Four helpers were injured and two were killed. "This is a frightening pattern," said Emanuele Bruni, WHO incident manager in Ukraine. In January and March, there was almost one attack per day, mostly using heavy weapons.