War in Ukraine: Zelensky wants to expand arms production in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj wants to use Western investments to significantly expand arms production in the country invaded by Russia. “Our industrial capacity allows us to produce far more drones, more grenades and military equipment than our country’s financial capabilities allow,” he said in his evening video message. The West could give the money, especially since many partners are currently unable to adequately help Ukraine due to a lack of their own weapons.

“In addition, some partners have special technologies that can already be used in Ukraine,” said Zelensky. He thanked everyone who had already invested in the defense sector – especially in the production of drones. During his visit to Paris, a new Ukrainian-French model was discussed. This should now be deepened at the level of the defense ministers.

During the Russian war of aggression, which has been going on for more than two and a half years, Zelensky has repeatedly stated that he wants to make Ukraine one of the world’s largest arms producers. According to the military, the country is urgently in need of new weapons and ammunition.

Zelenskyj: Maintain defined lines in the Kursk area

With regard to the Ukrainian counteroffensive in the Russian border region of Kursk, Zelensky said that Kiev’s military was holding the defined lines there. There had previously been attempts by the Russian armed forces to drive the Ukrainian army from their positions. He thereby indirectly contradicted Russian claims that Moscow’s troops had recaptured several towns there.

The Ukrainian army invaded the Kursk region at the beginning of August and occupied dozens of towns there. According to Zelensky, this is intended to increase the pressure on Russia to negotiate. The military leadership in Moscow has announced that it will soon liberate Russian territory.