**Ukraine Boosts Defense Funding Amid Increased Russian Attacks**
In a desperate bid to counter the escalating aerial attacks by Russia, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced plans to significantly increase funding for interceptor drone and ballistic missile production. The move comes as Russia continues to launch massive drone strikes against Ukraine, with over 900 attack drones launched in just three days.
Speaking in an evening address on May 26, Zelensky stated that he had instructed a significant increase in the production of Ukrainian interceptor drones, with additional funding being sought from international partners. Furthermore, he ordered dedicated funding for Ukraine’s ballistic missile program to accelerate missile production. This decision is likely aimed at bolstering the country’s defenses against Russia’s relentless aerial assaults.
**Russia’s Intensified Aerial Attacks**
The recent surge in Russian drone and missile attacks has seen unprecedented levels of violence inflicted upon Ukraine. On May 26, Russia launched its third large-scale aerial and drone assault against Ukraine in three nights, killing at least six people and injuring 24 across the country. This attack marked the most extensive drone strike against Ukraine during the full-scale war, topping the previous record of 298 drones just a day earlier on May 25.
The sheer scale of Russia’s attacks is staggering, with over 900 strike drones launched in addition to cruise and ballistic missiles. Zelensky described this as “a clear political choice” made by Russian President Putin, driven by a desire to continue waging war and destroying lives. The fact that these attacks have continued despite peace talks between Ukraine and Russia raises serious questions about the sincerity of Moscow’s intentions.
**Peace Talks Yield Little**
The recent peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul on May 16 yielded little in terms of concrete agreements or concessions. Despite a prisoner exchange being agreed upon, the talks were largely inconclusive, with Moscow reiterating maximalist demands and sending a delegation of lower-level officials. The fact that these attacks have continued despite this shows that Russia’s true intentions remain unclear.
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