Zelensky calls for govt interaction at all levels to build effective territorial defense

He stated this at a meeting of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of Ukraine in Kharkiv on Friday, February 11, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

"National resistance and territorial defense are organized under the auspices and direct leadership of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Everyone, especially individual leaders on the ground, must clearly realize that there are things that should be implemented exclusively by the military, only professionals. Helping them is good, but sometimes it is much better not to disturb them," Zelensky said.

He stressed that in the issue of national security "there is no room for politics, intrigue, speculation and chaos."

"Every day, especially now, there must be full interaction between government agencies at all levels. Regional and district state administrations, regional and district councils and other representatives of local self-government must have an understanding of their responsibility in order to build a very effective model of territorial defense and national resistance. This is a reliable rear for a professional and well-equipped army, which forms the basis of our state, the basis of a strong state," Zelensky said.

Zelensky on Friday started a two-day working trip to the Kharkiv and Kherson regions.

A meeting of the Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council will take place in Kharkiv on Friday.

op