Ukraine Air Defenses Down 90% of Drones

Ukraine Air Defenses Down 90% of Drones

Ukrainian forces have intercepted approximately 90% of Russian drones targeting the nation, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported. This high interception rate comes amid a widespread campaign of drone attacks that prompted air raid sirens across most Ukrainian regions. While the success rate is significant, Zelenskyy stressed the need for continued improvement in air defense capabilities.

The Russian strikes, which involved a large number of Shahed drones, hit multiple regions including Invol, Zakapacha, Turnopoul, Chernifty, Churassi, Ivano, and Franks. Energy infrastructure remains a primary target for Russian forces. In Lusk, food warehouses and a Nova Posha terminal sustained damage. Residential buildings were also hit in Pava and other areas.

Russia’s Response to Peace Overtures

Zelenskyy characterized these attacks as Russia’s response to Ukraine’s proposal for a ceasefire during the Easter holidays. “Russia responds with shahads and continues its terrorist attacks on our energy sector and on our infrastructure,” he stated. Ukraine had openly offered Russia a pause in fighting for the holiday, hoping it would signal a path toward successful diplomacy.

“Other signals are needed and silence at Easter could be the very signal that tells everyone diplomacy can be successful,” Zelenskyy remarked. He emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to peace efforts and highlighted discussions with American officials, including Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, and Lindsey Graham, on strengthening diplomacy and security guarantees.

Seeking Enhanced Security Guarantees

The Ukrainian president has instructed his team to develop updated proposals for robust security guarantees. These efforts aim to make post-war reconstruction realistic and ensure Ukraine’s long-term security. “Ukraine must receive reliable security and this is the main task,” Zelenskyy asserted, noting the readiness of U.S. representatives to work towards compromises and solutions.

A key focus is clearly defining how international partners would respond to renewed Russian aggression. Stronger joint positions and well-prepared documents are crucial to deter future attacks. Zelenskyy also mentioned ongoing cooperation with countries interested in Ukraine’s defense expertise, citing agreements with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and ongoing work with Jordan, Kuwait, Iraq, and Bahrain. Turkey and other Middle Eastern nations have also shown significant interest.

Call for Justice and Accountability

In a separate address to European parliamentary representatives, Zelenskyy underscored the need for justice and accountability for Russian war crimes. He highlighted the atrocities committed in Bucha and other Ukrainian cities, stating that the absence of war criminals facing trial devalues the concept of justice.

“Only by defending the truth and restoring justice will the world have a chance for a peaceful future,” he declared. Zelenskyy argued that Russia continues its war fueled by oil revenues and impunity. He called for international sanctions to deprive Russia of these resources and impose consequences.

The president urged swift action on a special tribunal, an international compensation commission for Ukraine, and the return of abducted children. He stressed that repentance should not replace punishment for aggressors. “There must be inevitability of consequences for all Russian criminals in the future,” he insisted, warning that failure to act risks repeating atrocities like those in Bucha.

Historical Parallels and Global Security

Zelenskyy drew parallels between current events and World War II, noting that Nazism was punished while current aggressors face only partial sanctions. He warned that crises elsewhere should not distract from the need for determination against Russian aggression.

“Butcher endured 33 days of Russian occupation, terror, torture, 33 days of total evil,” he recounted, referencing the city’s experience. He stated that Russia’s denial of these atrocities mirrors the tactics of evil itself. The president emphasized that the tragedy of Bucha could be repeated in any European country if unity and resolve are insufficient.

Zelenskyy called for restoring the power of international law and the values of human life, freedom, and truth. He expressed confidence that through collective action, a dignified and lasting peace can be secured for Ukraine and for Europe. The president thanked the 23 delegations present for their unwavering support and for keeping Ukraine in the global focus.

Source: 😱Zelenskyy addressed Ukrainians with URGENT news. LISTEN to what happened (YouTube)