Zelenskyy: Air Force’s work against Shaheds unsatisfactory, conclusions will be drawn
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Getty Images)
The Russian forces managed to strike an energy facility in the Kyiv region with Shahed drones this morning. The Air Force’s work against such drones is unsatisfactory, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s evening address.
He noted that he held a special video conference to discuss the situation in the regions, focusing on restoration efforts and the allocation of necessary resources. The most difficult situation right now is in Kyiv.
"In the morning, there were strikes by Shaheds on an energy facility in the region. Repair crews are working now. The Air Force’s work against the Shaheds is unsatisfactory: there are interceptors and many forces involved – mobile fire groups, F-16s are available – but the organization of the Air Force’s operations needs to be different,” the head of state emphasized.
He added that he discussed this situation with Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. The president promised that conclusions would be drawn.
The head of state also said he spoke with RNBO (National Security and Defense Council) Secretary Rustem Umerov, Head of the Presidential Office Kyrylo Budanov, and Servant of the People faction leader in parliament David Arakhamia, who are representing Ukraine at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
The Ukrainian delegation is actively working with the US side and European representatives on potential meetings and support packages.
"Missiles for air defense are needed every day. Weapons are needed every day. Equipment for restoration and reserves is needed every day. If the Davos format can ensure this – real results for Ukraine – Ukraine will be represented there. Nobody needs empty politics or talk without results," he said.
For reference, according to the Air Force, Ukrainian troops shot down 315 of 339 enemy strike drones overnight on January 20.
Attack on energy facilities
On the night of January 20, Russian forces once again struck energy infrastructure facilities.
After this attack, the electricity situation in Kyiv worsened. In some apartment buildings, power has been out since the Russian strike.
More details on the consequences of the strike on the capital can be found in the RBC-Ukraine report.
