Zelenskyy asks Trump for help with air defences as Russia continues attacks – as it happened

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has formally requested assistance from former President Donald Trump regarding air defense systems as Russia continues its missile attacks on Ukraine.

This appeal highlights the ongoing urgency for military support amid escalating hostilities, with Zelenskyy specifically seeking more ammunition for Patriot air defense systems to counter the threat posed by Russian ballistic missiles.

The situation remains critical as Russia intensifies its military operations, prompting responses from various European nations, including Belgium, which has summoned Russia’s ambassador over threats to strike Kyiv.

This diplomatic move follows similar actions taken by Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and the European Union, indicating a unified stance against Russian military actions. Meanwhile, Hungary's lawmakers have voted to reaffirm their commitment to the International Criminal Court, reversing a prior decision that had put their membership in jeopardy.

This political maneuvering occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions in Europe, as nations grapple with the implications of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Zelenskyy's request for support underscores the broader need for international cooperation in addressing security challenges posed by Russia's military actions.