Zelenskyy announces meetings and negotiations on strengthening air defense
Photo: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Getty Images)
Ukraine's representatives will soon hold a series of meetings with foreign partners. This is necessary to strengthen the country's air defense, stated President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
President highlighted that over the first three days of the new year, the Russian army launched over 300 strike drones and nearly 20 missiles, including ballistic ones, against Ukrainian cities and villages.
"Such relentless Russian terror demands that we, along with all our partners, do not reduce our efforts in building up our air shield and all its systemic elements - from Patriot to mobile fire groups," Zelenskyy said.
He said that Ukraine needs to constantly replenish its stock of missiles for air defense, as well as increase the capacity of mobile fire groups.
"I am grateful to all our partners who are providing assistance. We are preparing for meetings and negotiations next week to strengthen our air defense. The schedule for this work has already been preliminarily agreed upon," the President stated.
Russian attacks on Ukraine
On the night of January 3, Russia launched 93 Shahed drones and imitator UAVs against Ukraine. The defense forces managed to intercept 60 drones, while 26 of the enemy imitator drones were locationally lost.
In the fall, Russia intensified attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. President Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine needs additional 12-15 air defense systems to fully protect itself from Russian strikes.
This issue was discussed with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, who confirmed that the Alliance is aware of Ukraine’s request for new air defense systems.
