NATO countries should help Ukraine with air defense systems ahead of winter and due to Russia's alleged preparations to attack critical infrastructure, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Thursday.

He noted he discussed all major defense issues with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg during his visit to Kyiv, including the situation on the battlefield and the needs of Ukrainian soldiers.

"I am sure that we can continue to put pressure on the aggressor so that Russia only retreats and loses, and this is the right tactic," he said.

Zelenskyy said only last night the Russian occupiers used more than 40 martyrs, and this happened almost every night.

"In the context of such intense attacks on Ukrainians, on our cities, on our ports, which are important for global food security, we need a corresponding intensity of pressure on Russia and a corresponding strengthening of our air shield. The world needs to see how Russian terror is built so that our shared values will finally win." - said Zelenskyy.

He said the discussion also reviewed Russia's alleged attacks on Ukraine's critical infrastructure and the issue of assistance to Ukraine, including air defense systems.

“The Secretary General has agreed to contribute to the support of this issue, mobilizing the Alliance member states for this purpose. We must overcome this winter together, protect our energy infrastructure and people's lives," Zelenskyy said.