I wish you health, fellow Ukrainians!
Today, I chaired a meeting of the National Security and Defense Council – a special session attended not only by central government officials, law enforcement, and the military, but also by representatives of the regions. All our regions and the largest cities were present. For each of them a specific plan has been prepared – covering energy, critical infrastructure, and logistics – for the next winter. Unfortunately, Kyiv was the only exception – the capital proved unprepared. But we will overcome this challenge as well. In fact, for all regions there is now one common task for the next winter and for the immediate period as well: in the spring, the Russians are not going to reduce the number and cynicism of their attacks; they are preparing to target critical infrastructure in the same way. Of course, we got through this winter – some communities, some of our cities were able to achieve better results in protection and in supporting people. Others failed completely, as we saw. Now we must take all the best experience from the regions, detailed tasks for the military and for our diplomacy, and implement two components of the nationwide strategy: to prepare for strikes in the near term and to prepare for the next winter so that there are no catastrophes or problems like those we faced this winter. Alternative generation and heat supply solutions, additional energy sources, real protection – taking into account the scale of all threats – all of this must be ensured. I thank every region, every mayor, and all Ukrainian communities that have already presented their resilience plans. I thank the Government for its work this winter and for the right approach to preparing for the next one. There are things we must do at our own level in Ukraine – specific work – and the biggest tasks lie with the communities and the military. There are tasks regarding air defense and the construction of protective structures. It is also clear what we need to agree on with our partners for the next heating season. I thank Naftogaz, all our Ukrainian energy companies, every repair crew, as well as Ukrzaliznytsia and the State Emergency Service of Ukraine – everyone who worked to help people get through this winter. Ukraine received the necessary imports – both gas and electricity. We are increasing the relevant capacities. Financial coordination with partners was also properly established. This must continue. Of course, due to the war with the Iranian regime, there are now challenges both regarding rising energy prices and the volume of air defense equipment supplies needed by us in Ukraine. But we must have adequate responses to this as well – all of us in the state must work together to ensure that.
I spoke with Ursula von der Leyen, in particular about the situation surrounding Iran and all the challenges. We also discussed our bilateral issues with the European Union. Ukraine is fulfilling its obligations, and we expect the same fair and sincere attitude toward Ukraine – toward the interests of our people.
Today I spoke with leaders of countries currently under attack from Iran – the President of the United Arab Emirates and the Amir of Qatar. We will continue this diplomatic engagement with the broader Middle East and Gulf region. Ukraine stands in solidarity with all those who are resisting the spread of war and violence. For decades, the Iranian regime has invested in destroying the lives of its neighbors and others wherever it could reach. It was on that very foundation that they became accomplices of Russia in the war against Ukraine. Every “shahed” drone in Ukrainian skies proves that the Iranian regime must be held accountable for its attempts to destroy lives and kill people. It is essential that those who defend life prevail in this confrontation. At the level of our teams – the Ukrainian team, the teams of the Emirates and Qatar, and other states – we will determine how, together, we can provide stronger protection for life. Ukraine’s expertise in countering “shahed” drones is currently the most advanced in the world, and these drones represent the primary challenge in that region as well. It is clear why so many requests are directed to Ukraine. However, any such cooperation aimed at protecting our partners can only proceed without diminishing our own defense capabilities here in Ukraine. Russia’s war against Ukraine continues, Russian strikes continue, and protecting Ukrainian lives remains our first priority. Thank you to everyone who stands with Ukraine!
Glory to Ukraine!