Ukraine urged allies on Tuesday to immediately release 300 Patriot interceptor missiles from existing stockpiles, warning that Russia is exploiting gaps in Kyiv’s ballistic missile defenses as it prepares for renewed winter attacks on Ukrainian cities. The urgent request was part of a broader list presented at the 36th Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting, which also included 500 air-to-air missiles capable of countering cruise missiles, additional MANPADS and $2 billion for drones.JOIN US ON TELEGRAMFollow our coverage of the war on the @Kyivpost_official. US says support may be needed for years US Under Secretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby praised Ukraine’s recent “stout defense,” arguing that it demonstrated Europe’s ability to take greater responsibility for defending the continent against Russian aggression. Colby warned that Russia is “reconstituting its forces and its defense-industrial capacity,” requiring allies to prepare for a “protracted conflict” and Ukrainian needs lasting “months and years ahead.” Washington also placed greater long-term responsibility on Europe, describing the transition toward European allies taking the lead in conventional defense as already underway. “Support for Ukraine contributes to Europe’s security,” Colby told the nearly 50-country virtual meeting. “Words are not enough. Real money and industrial capacity must be put to work.” Patriot gap exposed Ukraine intercepted 31 of 32 cruise missiles in Russia’s latest mass attack, but newly appointed Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara warned that ballistic missiles remain far harder to stop.