Zelensky arrives in Washington, says air defence aid 'top issue'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrives to address the 78th United Nations General Assembly at UN headquarters in New York City on September 19, 2023. Photo by AFP

Zelensky is set to hold talks with President Joe Biden on his second visit to the U.S. during the Russian invasion. Russia hit cities across Ukraine with a barrage of missiles ahead of the talks.

"Today there are important negotiations in Washington. Air defense for Ukraine is among the top issues," Zelensky said on Telegram as he arrived from New York.

"More air defense, more support for Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines."

Zelensky slammed Moscow's "massive" overnight attack that killed several people in the southern city of Kherson and wounded many in various regions.

"Most of the missiles were shot down. But only the majority. Not all," Zelensky said.

He thanked those countries that had "provided Ukraine with anti-missile systems.

"We are working to completely rid Russia of its terrorist potential," he added. "We have to come to this result."