Zelensky: “Strengthening air defense and increasing the number of missiles is number one priority for Ukraine”

With its extensive shelling and air attacks, Russia is attempting to break the spirit of Ukrainians.

This makes reinforcing air defense systems and arming Ukraine the top priority, Rubryka reports, citing President Volodymyr Zelensky.

"Our sky defenders are doing everything possible to protect the country. Our entire diplomatic team, everyone responsible for communication with partners and Ukrainian representatives abroad, are working at full capacity to ensure the supply of additional air defense systems and missiles," said the president.

Zelensky stressed that strengthening air defense systems and increasing the number of missiles was the number one priority. Zelensky also highlighted the main goal of securing new support packages for the soldiers.

"Artillery, including 155 caliber, electronic warfare, new drones, and anything else necessary. Grateful to all our partners who are already shaping new support packages. There will be a lot of relevant communication this month," said Zelensky.

In the coming year, Ukraine plans to significantly increase the production of various types of weapons, with a focus on missiles and ammunition for air defense systems.

"The production capacities of the Ukrainian defense industry in 2023 tripled. The ambitious goal for the current year is a sixfold increase," said Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.

The expansion of defense industry capabilities aims to boost the production of drones, shells, cartridges, and armored vehicles for the military.

Moreover, on January 29, Britain announced the urgent supply of missiles to Ukraine's air defense systems following a massive missile strike by Russia.

The British Ministry of Defense made the decision to provide an additional batch of missiles after one of the most massive missile attacks on Ukraine since the beginning of the war. It happened on the night of January 2, 2024.