Russia deploying ten times more Shahed drones than last fall - Zelenskyy

He shared this update on Telegram.

The meeting focused on enhancing protection in areas most affected by shelling. 

Zelenskyy noted, “I held a meeting where acting Air Force Commander Anatolii Kryvonozhko reported on our efforts against Russian air attacks. We need to strengthen air defense in the most vulnerable regions, develop new solutions to combat guided aerial bombs and enhance mobile fire units. Russia is now using about ten times more Shahed drones than last fall, so we must respond effectively.”

Participants also reviewed reports on Ukraine's own production of shells, drones, and electronic warfare equipment, as well as current contracting results and plans. “We discussed 3-5 year contracts for Ukrainian producers of strategic drones. A long planning horizon is essential for development and investment,” the president emphasized.

Additionally, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi reported on using long-range drones and outlined priorities for upcoming operations.

• In October 2024, Russia switched its tactics against Ukraine away from the massive missile attacks seen in September. However, it did regularly launch single strikes, mainly using Kh-59/69 and 9M723 missiles.