Dear Ukrainians!
Just now, there was an in-depth briefing by Ukraine’s Minister of Defense Umerov and the military commanders regarding the front line and our defense relations with partners. Russian assault operations continue, and our forces maintain all necessary combat activity. The most intense situation remains in the Donetsk region, particularly in the Pokrovsk direction. We are also continuing active operations in the Kursk and Belgorod regions – this is our active and effective defense of the Sumy region, the defense of the Kharkiv region. Since the start of the Kursk operation in August, the Russian army has suffered significant losses – more than 63,000 killed and wounded in that area alone. Our forces have also managed to substantially replenish the exchange fund for Ukraine. The more combat activity is carried out on enemy territory, the more it protects our communities.
Unfortunately, the Russians show no signals of a ceasefire, and they are not yet ready to end the war. Therefore, all our forms of pressure, all our work with partners to put pressure on Russia, are absolutely necessary. Pressure convinces. Pressure on the battlefield. Pressure on the economy – and that is exactly what sanctions are for. Pressure in politics. I want to thank everyone who supports Ukraine.
I want to recognize our warriors now who have distinguished themselves in recent weeks. This is our 14th Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine – thank you! Also, the 36th Marine Brigade, also, the 25th Assault Battalion, and the 1st Assault Regiment – thank you all. This is the defense focused specifically on the Pokrovsk direction. I am also grateful for the operations in the Kursk region. I want to thank every soldier of ours, every sergeant and officer, and all our units.
Ukraine’s Defense Minister reported on the details of cooperation with partners regarding new arms supplies. We are also actively working to attract investment into domestic production here in Ukraine. Production will only continue to grow, and this is our long-term security guarantee. I held several international calls today. President of the European Council Costa – I informed him about the talks with the United States and the corresponding agreements with other European partners. We are also thoroughly preparing the negotiation process regarding Ukraine’s accession. On our side, everything is in place specifically for opening the first clusters. I also discussed this with Prime Minister of Poland Tusk – Poland currently holds the EU Presidency, and it is important that this presidency delivers results. I also spoke with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, including about possible formats of meetings and joint work. Together, we are strengthening diplomacy.
And one more critical issue: we are preparing an exchange. Reports come in practically every day. We must free all of our people, absolutely. We are verifying information for every name. We are trying to do everything possible. And we are trying hard.
Glory to Ukraine!
