Zelenskyy unveils first priorities for Defense Ministry
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Mykhailo Fedorov (t.me/V_Zelenskiy_official)
The main task of Ukraine’s new Defense Minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, is to protect the country’s airspace. In addition, he is tasked with conducting a financial audit and ensuring frontline brigades are supplied with drones, stated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The President spoke about a meeting with Fedorov, during which the Ministry of Defense's initial priorities were determined.
"The main one is air defense. There are concrete decisions that must be implemented as quickly as possible. The second priority is to significantly strengthen the technological component, in coordination with the military, to stop the advance of Russian occupiers on the battlefield, as well as to resolve problematic issues related to frontline logistics," Zelenskyy said.
He noted that an expedited audit of defense financing will take place and that Fedorov will outline ways to close existing shortages.
Funding, drones, and territorial recruitment centers issues
Zelenskyy highlighted plans to increase financial support for Ukrainian defenders on the front lines.
"We are also working separately on drone supplies – the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine must introduce a basic level of drone provision for combat brigades and ensure the procurement of specialized drones capable of striking the enemy at greater depth," he emphasized.
Another priority for the Defense Ministry is the territorial recruitment centers.
"Third, the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine will propose systemic solutions to the issues that have built up within the Territorial Recruitment Centers. Decisions have already been made to ensure a more equitable distribution of personnel among combat brigades," Zelenskyy said.
He stressed the need for "broader changes" in the mobilization process to expand the capabilities of Ukraine’s defense and security forces, as well as in the economic processes.
The President added that Fedorov will soon introduce the ministry's new team.
On January 14, the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian Parliament - ed.) voted to appoint Mykhailo Fedorov as Ukraine’s Defense Minister. A total of 277 deputies voted in favor.
