Umerov affirms Ukraine's robust 2024 plan

Speaking at the "Ukraine. Year 2024" forum, Umerov highlighted the unprecedented nature of Russia's war against Ukraine.

"This war is marked by the first-ever onslaught of missiles on peaceful cities. Since the full-scale invasion began, over 8,000 missiles have been launched by the Russian Federation at Ukraine. Kinzhal missiles have been deployed for the first time, and we've witnessed the inaugural destruction of the enemy's formidable drone fleet. This marks the advent of drone warfare, and we're adapting to these new realities by establishing the Unmanned Systems Forces, as decreed by the president. The Ministry of Defense, in collaboration with the General Staff, will spearhead the formation of policy and the creation of the Unmanned Systems Forces," affirmed the minister.

Umerov underscored that this is the first war fought 'with smartphones in hand.' Beyond conventional means, Ukraine grapples with a daily hybrid information war—a unique battle marked by swift information dissemination and hundreds of thousands of communication sources, including anonymous outlets for unprecedented propaganda and information attacks.

"In this information war, our weapon is the truth," emphasized Minister Umerov.

He proceeded to share the focal points of the Ministry of Defense team's recent efforts, outlining the critical issues they have been addressing in the past few months.

The Ministry of Defense consolidated a plan of needs for 2024, encompassing the Armed Forces, Defense Forces, Ministry of Internal Affairs, border guards, National Guard, Security Service of Ukraine, Ukraine's Intelligence, and others.

Minister Umerov highlighted the plan's significance for internal coordination and international partnerships, streamlining communication through a single window.

"We agreed with the government and adopted it at the Cabinet of Ministers level," said the minister.

Umerov underscored the Ministry of Defense's role as a body shaping wartime needs and presenting them to partners. It maintains records and reports for our allies.

He clarified that this process enables the examination of aid usage effectiveness.

Umerov also discussed collaboration with the National Police to prevent irregularities in the Armed Forces food supply. Active efforts with the Security Service of Ukraine, NABU, and other agencies are underway to expose corruption schemes in the Defense Forces.

"For me, corruption is worse than terrorism. Victory won't come alongside those stealing from our society," emphasized Umerov.

The minister highlighted cooperation with partners in supply, regulation, equipment, and fortification construction matters.

"We're doing everything possible for a breakthrough. The 2024 plan is powerful, though not publicly discussed. It brings hope and results in 2024," he summarized.

Half the weapons arrive late in Ukraine

"Given the dynamic situation, 50% isn't delivered on time. The enemy's war expenditure is over 150 billion dollars from a 2 trillion economy," said the Defense Ministry head.

Umerov stressed Allies must ensure timely supplies, emphasizing the historical importance of air superiority. Delays cost lives and territories.

Ukraine does "everything possible and impossible," but timely weapons supply is critical, noted the minister.

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