British Defence Secretary Wes Streeting visited Kyiv on Tuesday, pledging continued support for Ukraine amid ongoing Russian missile attacks that have caused significant civilian casualties. The visit came hours after a series of strikes on the Ukrainian capital killed 17 people and injured 44 others, with none of the missiles intercepted due to a shortage of air defense systems.

During his first visit to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion, Streeting praised the country’s "valiant resistance" while condemning the civilian toll as "outrageous and intolerable." Speaking in the heavily damaged Lukianivska district of Kyiv, he acknowledged Britain’s lack of certain defense capabilities, notably the Patriot missile interceptors Ukraine has repeatedly requested. Streeting indicated the UK would explore acquiring such systems from other countries or urging allies to increase aid deliveries.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky underlined the urgent need for these missile defense systems, stating they "could have saved lives." He also criticized delays in weapon supplies, which he said have resulted in "horrific casualties and destruction."

According to Ukraine’s military, Russia launched 24 ballistic missiles, four hypersonic weapons, and over 100 drones during the Tuesday night assault. Ukrainian forces intercepted 156 of 351 missiles in the past month, an improvement compared to 128 out of 192 intercepted over the same period last year, though the ongoing attacks continue to inflict heavy damage.

Streeting directly criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for the human cost of the conflict, labeling the war "borne out of one man’s imperialistic aims" and "a tragedy" defined by "futility." He highlighted the immense loss of life, including among Russian troops, stating, "Putin is losing this war. He is losing badly." He added that it was "staggering and unconscionable" that a leader would show such disregard for the lives of those he sends into combat.

Responding to a question about the potential outcome for Putin, Streeting emphasized that the UK’s position is not against the Russian people but firmly supporting Ukraine. "Our quarrel has never been with them. We don’t desire conflict with Russia. But we stand resolutely and unequivocally with Ukraine," he said. The Defence Secretary’s visit signals the UK government’s ongoing commitment to aiding Ukraine’s defense amid a protracted and costly conflict.