Today at 20:04
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held separate talks with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and French President Emmanuel Macron, focusing on strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses, advancing the delivery of Swedish Gripen fighter jets and increasing pressure on Russia to pursue diplomacy, UATV English reports.
During his conversation with Kristersson, Zelenskyy said bolstering Ukraine’s air defense remains the country’s top priority as Russia intensifies its use of ballistic missiles, combined strikes and jet-powered Shahed drones.
“The key issue is, of course, air defense. We now see that Russia is relying on ballistic missiles, combined attacks and jet-powered Shahed drones. Protection against these threats is the key to denying Russia the ability to prolong the war,” Zelenskyy said.
The president also said Ukraine and Sweden are continuing preparations for the introduction of Gripen fighter jets, including infrastructure development and pilot training.
“We are working actively to ensure the necessary infrastructure, training and the deployment of Swedish Gripen aircraft on schedule. This is a historic reinforcement of our combat aviation, and our security cooperation with Sweden, including within the Drone Deal framework, must deliver tangible results,” he said.
In his call with Macron, Zelenskyy discussed diplomatic efforts to increase pressure on Moscow and coordinate next steps with key partners.
“It is important that every step we take in negotiations, in increasing pressure on Russia and in bringing peace closer is carefully prepared and coordinated with our key partners,” Zelenskyy said.
He also reiterated that Europe must play a central role in any future peace negotiations.
“Our position is that Europe must be part of the diplomatic process, and Europe’s voice must matter. We also discussed the battlefield situation, the key threats, Russia’s continued missile and drone attacks, and Ukraine’s need for additional air defense. We count on France’s support and strong decisions,” Zelenskyy added.
