Ukraine once again asked its allies today for “emergency and brave” initiatives to equip its air defenses and help it defend against waves of Russian airstrikes that have targeted its energy system in recent weeks.

Russian missile and drone attacks have hit Ukraine’s energy system since mid-March, prompting Kiev to make increasingly desperate calls for help with its air defenses.

“We have urgently requested additional Patriot systems and modern anti-aircraft systems, weapons and ammunition,” the Ukrainian foreign minister said in a video link to the Black Sea Security Conference. “I take this opportunity to once again urge all our partners to take bold and extraordinary initiatives”

“Ukraine’s air defense currently protects not only the skies of Ukraine from Russian air terrorism, it also protects neighboring Moldova, Romania and Poland from the indirect threat of missiles and drones entering their airspace,” added Cottage.

Western allies are reluctant to send additional anti-aircraft systems to Kiev, while Ukraine needs 26 Patriot systems to fully cover the country’s territory. Germany has promised an additional system after calls from Kiev.

Today Kuleba met with his Norwegian counterpart Espen Barth Ide who is visiting the Ukrainian capital to coordinate efforts to ensure the timely advancement of Patriots systems.

“We are talking with others about how we can help to make sure more Patriot systems are available,” Ide said.

Ukraine’s foreign minister praised the performance of allied support for Israel in response to Iran’s airstrike last weekend and urged countries to follow that example with regard to Ukraine.

“What we’re asking from partners, even if you can’t act the way you acted in Israel, give us what we need and we’ll do the rest,” Kuleba said.