Russians launched at least 1,961 Shahed drones against Ukraine - Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said this in his nightly video address at the end of day 526 of the war.

"In total, the terrorists have already launched at least 1,961 Shaheds against Ukraine, and a significant number of them have been shot down. Unfortunately, not all of them. We are working to shoot down more - to shoot down as many as possible. We are working to have more air defense systems. In particular, this is a task for each of our ambassadors, all representatives of Ukraine," he said.

At the same time, the president thanked the soldiers of the 15th operational brigade of the National Guard from the Melitopol sector, as well as the soldiers of the Izmail border guard detachment, who, together with naval units, counter Russian Shahed attacks.

Zelensky said that heavy fighting was ongoing, with the occupiers trying their best to stop Ukraine's defense forces.

"The assaults are very fierce. Kupiansk, Lyman, Bakhmut, Marinka, Avdiivka directions. Southern directions. It is difficult everywhere. But no matter what the enemy does, it is the Ukrainian force that dominates. And I am grateful to everyone on the frontline for this!" he said.