Zelensky: Deliveries of anti-ballistic missiles in May must meet promised levels

He said this following a Staff meeting, Ukrinform reports, citing his post on Telegram.

“There were reports on the supply of missiles for ballistic missile defense systems and on the status of implementing agreements with partners. It is important that in May, deliveries are no less than what has already been committed by partners – this is a direct task for our diplomats and military command. We also discussed progress on alternative means of ballistic missile countermeasures – both those available globally and Ukraine’s own developments,” he wrote.

Zelensky also noted that one of the key issues at the meeting was the provision of unmanned ground vehicles.

“It is unmanned ground vehicles that are currently one of the most urgent needs of our Defense Forces, and production and supply must keep pace with demand. The volume of contracting for UGVs must be significantly higher than last year. 25,000 UGVs have already been contracted – twice as many as last year – and this is only the starting point; the number will be increased significantly, and contracting is ongoing,” he said.

Zelensky thanked all manufacturers ensuring timely fulfillment of contracts, as well as every unit and commander scaling up the use of such systems.

“I have tasked the General Staff and the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine with conducting monthly assessments of the actual need for UGVs and the level of supply,” he added.

In addition, the President heard intelligence reports.

“The Defense Intelligence and the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine provided comprehensive reports on the state of Russia’s economy and social trends following the first quarter of this year – we are observing a significant deterioration in key indicators and noticeable losses in Russian exports,” Zelensky said.

He added that despite attempts by the Russian leadership to use the war in Iran to improve its financial situation, the real outcomes for Russia are negative. According to him, Ukrainian long-range sanctions are contributing to this. The President assured that pressure on the aggressor will continue.

As Ukrinform reported, last week Russia carried out massive attacks on Ukraine, using around 1,900 strike drones, nearly 1,400 guided aerial bombs, and about 60 missiles of various types. At the same time, Ukraine’s air defense demonstrates over 90% effectiveness in intercepting drones.

Photo: Office of the President of Ukraine