Ukraine faces no significant weapon shortages, but questions arise over FPV drones – Zelensky

Currently, Ukraine is not experiencing a significant shortage of weapons; however, there are concerns regarding the availability of FPV drones.

President Volodymyr Zelensky stated this during a conversation with journalists broadcast by Suspilne.

"There is a question about FPV, and there are some other questions, but from the point of view of artillery, from the point of view of some mines, systems, for now, we are closing these issues. And, frankly, we are increasing them," the head of state noted.

As the president noted, Ukraine has several contracts for supplying weapons that are not free of charge. Zelensky added that the country can pay for the contracts independently or with a partner.

In addition, Zelensky noted that today, all countries are increasing their support for Ukraine, particularly in terms of investments in Ukrainian production.

Regarding air defense, the president stated, "We will not close here simply by financing in our budget."

"This air defense will not be enough. We need to order, negotiate with other countries, get licenses, and open our own factories," Zelensky added.

For reference:

On March 14, the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera wrote that Ukraine had almost run out of missiles for the SAMP-T air defense systems, which Italy and France supplied to the Defense Forces.

The publication notes that for the past two weeks, Kyiv has been asking Italy and France to send new missiles for the Aster-30 system; Ukraine needs at least 50 ammunition. However, Italy's reserve has already reached its lower limit, while France has more Aster-30s in service.

On March 13, the Associated Press, citing an American official, reported that Ukraine has run out of ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System) surface-to-surface tactical ballistic missiles. As an American official told reporters, the United States has supplied Ukraine with less than 40 missiles. He also claims that they ended at the end of January 2025.

Rubryka has compiled key information and expert insights on suspending military aid. For a comprehensive understanding, read our piece, "US halts military aid to Ukraine: Key details and what comes next."

It is worth adding that on March 11, Ukraine and the United States of America held an official meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, which was the first after the loud dispute in the White House.

Ukraine and the United States agreed on several issues during the negotiations, as noted in a joint statement following the meeting. In particular, the United States canceled the pause in the exchange of intelligence and resumed security assistance.