Zelenskyy opposes any freezing of the war, stating it would simply "move Russian aggression to another stage."
On the evening of September 18, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy traditionally addressed the Ukrainian people and discussed the day's key events.
Strikes on Russian territory
First and foremost, Zelenskyy commented on a successful strike on a Russian arsenal in Toropets (Tver region, Russia).
"First of all, I want to thank our soldiers who ensure our long-range capabilities. We achieved very important results last night on Russian territory, and such actions weaken the enemy. I thank everyone involved. This precision is inspiring. Our special services – the Security Service, the Defense Intelligence and Special Operations Forces – thank you," said the Head of State.
Situation at the Front
"Today there were two reports from the Commander-in-Chief – initially, a detailed briefing on all directions of our operations. Our defense and our offensive actions," the President noted. General Syrskyi reported on changes in the situation in Kursk region and the response of Ukrainian forces to this. Zelenskyy praised the Ukrainian units in the Kursk area.
"We are maintaining the situation on our foothold within planned parameters," the Head of State stated.
Additionally, he assured that the authorities and military command are paying maximum attention to the directions in Kharkiv and Donetsk regions.
"Pokrovsk, Toretsk, Kurakhove. We are working on strengthening, which concerns both weapons and personnel," said Zelenskyy.
Funding for defense
Today, the President spoke with the Minister of Finance of Ukraine and the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council regarding defense funding.
"There was a lot of work today with our international team – we are preparing meetings with partners and negotiations. The priority is not only to implement everything we have already agreed upon, which is currently stalled at the logistics stage, but also to address more strategic matters. We have clear tasks regarding the staffing of brigades – this involves equipment and training. Promises regarding air defense made during the summit in Washington have still not been fully fulfilled. This is important – especially now, at the beginning of autumn, to achieve more results for our air shield," Zelenskyy explained.
Victory Plan ready
President Zelenskyy also announced that the Victory Plan was fully prepared – all points, key focuses and necessary details have been finalized. It should be noted that on September 16, the President stated that the Victory Plan was 90% complete.
"Everything has been worked out. The most important thing now is the determination to implement it. There is no and cannot be any alternative to peace, no freezing of the war or any other manipulations that would simply shift Russian aggression to another stage. We need reliable and lasting security for Ukraine, and thus for all of Europe," he concluded.
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