Zelenskyy says Ukraine to boost defense production

President Zelenskyy announces plans to boost Ukraine's defense production and emphasizes the need for military support, including F-16 jets and Patriot missiles, amid a months-long delay in US aid stalled by Congressional Republicans.

Mar 19, 2024 - 08:04

Zelenskyy says Ukraine to boost defense production

Ahead of a US-led Ramstein-format meeting on 19 March to discuss military support for Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in his March 18 address, announced plans to maximize Ukraine’s defense production, emphasizing the strategic importance of expanding production potential annually, VoA reports.

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President Zelenskyy’s remarks came after a meeting with US Senator Lindsey Graham, amid a months-long delay in new US aid by the Congressional Republicans. Zelenskyy stated that they discussed the crucial need for freedom and democracy to prevail in the current war in Ukraine, warning that failure to do so could result in the spread of Russian aggression and chaos globally.

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Zelenskyy stated that his military requires artillery, F-16 jets, Patriot missiles, and Army Tactical Missile Systems.

Last fall, US President Joe Biden proposed $60 billion in new aid for Ukraine as part of a security package already approved by the Democrat-led Senate earlier this year. The Republican-led House of Representatives has yet to consider the measure, with House Speaker Mike Johnson insisting that any security package also address US border security.

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