Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday there was “no alternative” for the West but to supply Ukraine with heavy tanks, although Germany did not say whether it would supply the coveted Leopards.
V. Zelenskiy welcomed the progress made in recent days, when the United States and several European countries promised to supply weapons.
“Partners take a principled position – they will support Ukraine as much as necessary for our victory,” V. Zelensky said in his evening speech. “Yes, we will still have to fight for the supply of modern tanks, but we see more and more clearly every day that there is no alternative, that a decision regarding tanks must be made.”
After thanking the countries that have already pledged to deliver weapons, he added: “The only thing worth highlighting is the timing, the delivery time. Every deal must be done as soon as possible – for our defence.”
Earlier on Friday, Zelensky reiterated his hope for “strong decisions” as he addressed Western leaders gathered for a major meeting at the US Ramstein Air Base in Germany.
Poland and Finland have indicated that they would like to send German-made Leopard tanks to Ukraine, but this requires German approval.
Pressure is mounting on Berlin to approve the procurement, but new Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said on Friday: “We still cannot say when a decision will be made on the Leopard tanks and what it will be.”
Source: The Delfi
