Fellow Ukrainians!
Today, Ukraine’s new Government, headed by Sergii Koretskyi, began its work. His strength lies specifically in his work at state-owned energy companies. He came to Ukrnafta and changed the company’s processes after oligarchic control. Thanks to Sergii, Ukrnafta began truly working for our state. Naftogaz made it through a difficult winter, and despite all the Russian strikes, Ukraine remained supplied with gas. It is essential to be fully prepared for the next winter. Of course, we are investing as much as possible in Ukraine’s long-range capabilities and in our mid-range strikes to make it as difficult as possible for Russia to expand its offensive against Ukraine and drag out this war. But whatever the scenario, Ukraine must be fully prepared to protect lives and its people and ensure that we make it through the winter. This is the main shared Ukrainian task for the new Government. There will also be changes in our work with partners – agreements should be implemented faster.
The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine will continue all its work in support of our combat brigades – our long-range sanctions plan is being implemented in full. Today, I discussed this with Magyar – Commander of the Unmanned Systems Forces Robert Brovdi. He clearly understands what needs to be done. Thank you. Tomorrow, we will speak with combat commanders. Yevhenii Khmara will serve as Acting Minister of Defense of Ukraine. He headed the SSU’s Center of Special Operations “Alpha,” which has achieved the most effective results in eliminating the occupiers on the front. “Alpha” consistently ranks number one in the monthly results. Khmara was responsible for the long-range operations of the Security Service of Ukraine. We agreed that Khmara will also oversee the long-range operations of the Security Forces – this is a priority. He knows exactly what Ukraine needs and is also capable of maintaining control over the internal situation across the components of the Defense Forces. He has sufficient security experience to prevent disgraceful incidents. We have just discussed with Sergii Koretskyi the legal procedures needed to formalize this appointment – as well as the appointment of an Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine. Tomorrow, we will speak with Kyrylo Budanov and our diplomatic team about revamping Ukraine’s diplomatic missions abroad. Ukrainian embassies must be highly effective – and they will be.
One more thing.
Keir Starmer was in Ukraine today, and I thanked him on behalf of all of us, on behalf of our entire country, for his leadership and constant support. Today, there is a new defense package from the United Kingdom and Sweden – €300 million to help the Gripens become operational in our skies sooner. Britain stands with Ukraine. This matters.
We also had a good meeting today with the Foreign Minister of Türkiye – another important show of support. Türkiye confirms that it will do everything possible to facilitate a meeting at the leaders’ level to end this war. Every day, we are fully engaged internationally to ensure that Ukraine stands firm and remains able to defend itself. We must do everything to ensure that our defense leads to peace. Real peace, dignified peace, guaranteed peace. We will certainly achieve it.
Glory to Ukraine!