President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a national address on Saturday as Ukrainians observed the run-up to Independence Day, with the country's leadership pressing Washington for clarity on continued air defense support. The remarks came weeks after President Donald Trump wavered on Patriot missile production.

Ukrainian defense officials have voiced repeated concern over dwindling interceptor stocks as Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities continued through the summer. Kyiv has appealed to European allies to fill gaps left by uncertain U.S. commitments.

The political backdrop was sharpened by Russian information operations. Ukrainian fact-checking group StopFake reported that Russian propagandists had fabricated an Al Jazeera post about Russian strikes, using genuine design elements and photos to spread disinformation about the war.

European governments, including officials in Berlin and Warsaw, have signaled willingness to coordinate additional support through statements from their foreign ministries. Congressional Democrats in Washington have continued to press the White House for a clear position on weapons transfers ahead of autumn budget negotiations.

Zelensky's office said the address emphasized national resilience and gratitude to partners, framing the holiday as both a commemoration and an appeal for sustained international backing amid the ongoing conflict.