Zelensky Orders Enhanced Air Defenses Amidst Russian Strike Preparations

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has directed Ukraine’s Air Force leadership, the Ministry of Defense, and Ukrenergo to bolster protective measures in anticipation of a potential large-scale Russian attack. The directive comes following intelligence reports indicating Russia is preparing a massive strike, according to a statement released on social media channels.

“I instructed the commander of the Air Force of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Anatoly Krivonozhko, the Minister of Defense of Ukraine, Mikhail Fedorov, and the head of Ukrenergo, Vitaly Zaichenko, to prepare the necessary additional protective measures during the day, taking into account intelligence information about Russia’s preparation of a massive strike,” Zelenskyy stated.

Recent Strikes and International Discussions

The President’s instructions followed a conference call on February 16th to assess the situation in Ukrainian regions. Reports indicated that Russian forces targeted Ukrainian energy facilities overnight, though air defense systems were reportedly active. Zelenskyy emphasized that each Russian missile attack represents a response to calls for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

“Every Russian missile is the aggressor’s response to calls to end the war, and that is why we insist: only with sufficient pressure on Russia and clear security guarantees can Ukraine actually end this war,” Zelenskyy said.

Zelenskyy also referenced discussions held with partners at the Munich Security Conference, specifically regarding energy security. He stressed the need to implement existing agreements and accelerate the delivery of air defense missiles, stating this remains a top priority for Ukrainian institutions.

“In the coming days, it is necessary to implement the existing agreements. We are also working to speed up the supply of missiles for air defense – this is an invariable priority. The task of all relevant institutions of our state is to speed up air defense partners,” he emphasized.