Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sent an urgent letter to former US President Donald Trump, highlighting critical shortages in Ukraine's missile defense capabilities as Russia escalates aerial assaults. Zelensky noted that the delivery of US-made Patriot missiles is insufficient to counter the threat posed by Russian ballistic missiles, which remain a significant advantage for Moscow. Meanwhile, UK intelligence from GCHQ indicates that nearly 500,000 Russian soldiers have been killed since the onset of the war, underscoring the conflict's toll. The EU is set to discuss its strategy regarding future negotiations with Russia, as Ukraine aims to shift the mediation role from the US to Europe. Zelensky has called for renewed diplomacy and emphasized the need for Europe to take a proactive stance in the peace process. Additionally, Brigadier General Andriy Biletsky has stated that Ukraine faces a crucial six-month period to regain the initiative on the battlefield, with Russian forces reportedly exhausted. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated Europe's commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense and its path toward EU membership.