Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urgently calls for increased military support in response to Russia’s Monday (July 15) announcement that it has completed drafting 150,000 conscripts into its armed forces.

Zelenskyy pleads for more fighter jets and advanced missile defense systems from its Western allies to counter the Kremlin’s vigorous new offensive.

“There will not be enough [F-16s]. They will certainly strengthen us, but will there be enough of them to fight at a level with the Russian air force? I think they will not be enough,” said the Ukrainian President during a press conference in Kyiv on Monday. “We are anticipating a larger quantity.”

President Zelenskyy previously reiterated the dire situation faced by his country at the NATO summit in Washington last week, stating that Ukraine has “lost the initiative” against Russian advances due to delays in international aid.

Aside from the F-16s, Ukraine also needs at least 25 additional Patriot defense systems to regain momentum and fully defend its airspace against Russian missile attacks.

Rapid Russian Mobilization

On the Russian home front, the spring draft, which concluded with the induction of 150,000 new recruits, is seen as a strategic move to bolster its military presence.

Although Russian law stipulates that these conscripts are to be deployed within Russia, freeing up seasoned troops for frontline duties, contrary to official statements, concerns linger about their potential involvement in Ukrainian territories.

Russia conscripts
(Screenshot)

US Political Dynamics and Ukraine Aid

Recent changes in the US political landscape underscore the urgency of Zelenskyy’s request.