Ukraine prepares response to missile strikes: Zelenskyy outlines key focus
Ukraine is trying to accelerate the production of its own anti-ballistic capabilities in Europe, as there had long been no progress with the US on expanding such capacities. Meanwhile, Kyiv will continue talks with Washington regarding air defense support.
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Volodymyr Zelenskyy / © Associated Press / © Associated Press
In his nightly address, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine continues negotiations with partners to strengthen airspace protection, specifically by expanding the production of anti-ballistic systems.
According to him, there had long been no progress in cooperation with the US regarding increased anti-ballistic production. Therefore, Ukraine is trying to speed up this work in Europe and deploy the production of its own anti-ballistic capabilities on the continent in sufficient volumes.
«Unfortunately, there was no progress for a long time with America regarding expanding anti-ballistic production. We are trying to accelerate this work in Europe—to produce our own anti-ballistic capabilities on the continent in sufficient volume,» Zelenskyy stated.
The president thanked French Leader Emmanuel Macron and other partners who are ready to join in accelerating this work.
At the same time, he stressed that Ukraine would continue to speak with the US about opportunities to support Ukrainian air defense. According to him, such assistance is needed not only to protect Ukrainians but also for Ukraine’s future capability to help other countries protect lives.
Separately, Zelenskyy mentioned the PURL program, which allows for the procurement of American weapons for Ukraine using partners' funds.
«The PURL program is working, and we are grateful for that. Europe is helping us financially. However, United States leadership is also very much needed,» he stressed.
Zelenskyy also announced the stabilization of the situation on the front lines and outlined the secrets behind the strength of the defense.