Zelensky announces meetings with partners to bolster Ukraine's air defenses

He stated this in his nightly video address, Ukrinform reports.

"Today, we can already say there is a good result for our air defense – Ukraine now has more Patriots. I would like to thank Chancellor Merz, I thank Germany, and everyone who helps. Our agreements have been fulfilled. More Patriots are now in Ukraine and being put into operation," Zelensky said.

He stressed that "more systems are needed to protect key infrastructure sites and our cities across the entire territory of our state."

"We will continue working to obtain them – not only at the political level with states and leaders but also directly with manufacturers of all necessary air defense systems and missiles for them," Zelensky said.

He added that meetings with Ukraine's partners on this issue will take place next week, noting that "we have presented our partners with all calculations and possible options for ensuring sufficiently reliable air defense."

"Almost every day we defend ourselves against Russian ballistic strikes. We must continue destroying Russian military aviation, and all of this requires a multi-component air defense system – including our own combat aircraft. In this context, we already have decisions regarding Gripens and French aircraft, and we are working on F-16s. This also includes air defense systems and missiles for them, developing mobile fire groups, and, of course, interceptor drones – a current priority. The number of interceptors this year will be as specified by the state's directive," Zelensky said.

He also stressed the importance of rapidly increasing the number of trained drone operators, saying that Ukrainian forces, together with all relevant institutions, must expand training efforts rapidly and effectively.

Photo: Office of the President of Ukraine