On Wednesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted that Ukraine’s main priorities in the ongoing conflict with Russia are enhancing its air defense systems and protecting vital infrastructure.
Sharing a post on his X handle, Zelenskyy said, “Today, the Ukraine-NATO Council meeting was held. Our Minister of Defense briefed our partners on Ukraine’s most urgent needs–particularly air defence and the protection of critical infrastructure. The liquidation of the aftermath of the Russian ballistic missile attack on Kryvyi Rih continues all day.”
The Ukrainian President also addressed the airstrike on Kupiansk that resulted in casualties.
Expressing condolences, Zelenskyy said, “There was also a devastating airstrike on Kupiansk, where a guided bomb hit the city centre, leaving people trapped under rubble. Tragically, there are casualties. My deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected.”
Zelenskyy also urged Ukraine’s allies to strengthen their response to Russian aggression.
“It is important that all our partners respond more actively to Russian terror. This terror must never become a so-called “new normal” for Europe,” the post said.
He added, “We are also working with our partners on front-line supplies–not just weapons and ammunition, but also strength with long-range impact.”
In his post, Zelenskyy also extended his gratitude to the nations supporting Ukraine during the war.
He said, “We continue to insist that decisive action now, including lifting restrictions on long-range strikes for Ukraine, will help us bring this war to a just end for Ukraine and the world as a whole. The protection of life matters equally everywhere. I am grateful to everyone around the world who is helping.”
Throughout more than two-and-a-half years of conflict, Russia has persistently attacked Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, aiming to darken the country and exploit freezing winter temperatures as a weapon. On August 26, early morning explosions were reported in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities as Russia carried out a large-scale missile and drone strike, according to The Kyiv Independent.