KIEV:  Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke to a NATO summit via video link, calling for increased financial and military support for Ukraine, the presidential press service reported.

Volodymyr Zelensky said in his speech on Wednesday that Ukraine needs artillery to stand up to Russia on the battlefields and artillery missiles as well as air defense systems to safeguard its cities.
He added that his nation needs close to USD 5 billion per month for defence and security, emphasising the need for financial support for Ukraine on par with aid in the form of weaponry.

The head of Ukraine also urged NATO members to maintain their sanctions against Russia and support Ukraine's security.  Zelensky emphasised that "we need security assurances" and that "you have to create a place for Ukraine in the common security space."

On June 28, a three-day NATO summit began in Madrid, Spain.

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