Ukraine must persevere not only on the battlefield but also economically – this is what earns respect and ensures continued international support. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko emphasized this in an interview with Deutsche Welle. This was reported by G.Business , citing Deutsche Welle.
“You respect the strong. We must be strong both on the front line and economically. We are strong when we have partners around us. The support of Ukraine by its partners is the key to restoring peace,” Klitschko stated.
He pointed to the severe damage caused by ongoing Russian missile strikes on the civilian infrastructure of the capital.
“I have repeatedly asked myself the main question: What is the purpose of attacking a peaceful city and killing peaceful people? The answer is clear: to sow panic, depression, and fear among people so that they pack their bags and flee to Europe,” said the mayor.
Among the main challenges behind the front, Klitschko cited the destruction of logistics, a shortage of workers, and lack of resources.
“The economy is not functioning, logistics are destroyed, and there are not enough people for reconstruction because hundreds of thousands are mobilized and defending the country,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to Western allies, especially Germany, for their assistance, but underlined Ukraine’s urgent need for more air defense systems due to continued heavy bombardments.
“Without modern air defense, there would be far more destruction and casualties. But what we have is still not enough. Missiles and drones continue to fly – attacks happen almost every night,” Klitschko warned.
He also criticized U.S. President Donald Trump's recent decision to give Russian President Vladimir Putin 50 days to reach a peace agreement.
“I don’t understand why 50 days? In those 50 days, the Russians could kill many more civilians. I believe strong sanctions are needed. That would be a real deterrent,” said Klitschko.
Nonetheless, he viewed the time window as an opportunity to receive more modern weapons from Ukraine’s partners.
“We hope that within these 50 days, we will be able to obtain more modern weapons. Every war requires financing, weapons, and people. And we are grateful to our partners.”
Klitschko emphasized that Germany’s role has been particularly valuable:
“I want to thank Germany again. We feel significant support, especially in the field of air defense. It saves lives in our city and repels massive attacks of up to 500 drones, ballistic and cruise missiles. Without this support, the destruction and casualties would be far greater.”
When asked how many Patriot systems are currently deployed in Kyiv, he declined to specify:
“I am not ready to comment on the exact number. We will only be able to say it's enough when the war is over. Every day, we face massive and combined attacks. Air defense is a key challenge for every city – not just the capital.”
Klitschko also outlined the extent of destruction in Kyiv since the beginning of the full-scale war:
“More than 1,600 residential buildings have been destroyed, over 300 civilians have died, and about 3,000 buildings in total are damaged. The destruction is widespread across the city.”
“The goal is to destroy critical infrastructure, leave people without electricity, water, or heating. Russia’s goal is to sow fear, make people leave the country, and hand it over to the aggressor. There is no other explanation.”
Reconstruction efforts, he said, rely on the city budget and state support.
“If buildings are uninhabitable, we compensate for rental costs. We also assist with damaged schools and kindergartens – over 200 educational institutions have been destroyed. Children must be able to learn, but only in places with shelters.”
“The economy is stalled, logistics are broken, and we lack people for rebuilding. The greatest challenge is keeping life in the city functioning.”
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