**Ukraine Develops Interceptor Drones to Counter Russian Attacks, Says Zelensky**
In a bid to strengthen its defenses against increasingly frequent Russian drone attacks, Ukraine is rapidly developing interceptor drones. According to President Volodymyr Zelensky, the new drones will help counter the growing numbers of Iranian-designed Shahed drones being deployed by Russia.
Speaking in his nightly address on June 20, Zelensky said that Ukraine’s domestic drone production was “already delivering results” and that the production volumes of interceptors were increasing. This development comes as Russian drone strikes across Ukraine have been breaking records in recent weeks, with nearly 500 drones and missiles launched overnight on June 9.
**Ukraine’s Domestic Drone Production a Game-Changer**
Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine has focused heavily on developing and deploying advanced unmanned systems. As of April this year, more than 95% of drones used by Ukrainian forces on the front line are domestically produced. This shift towards domestic production has been crucial in helping Ukraine to adapt to the evolving nature of the conflict.
**Russia’s Drone Warfare Strategy Intensifies**
Both Ukraine and Russia have increasingly relied on drone warfare, employing aerial, naval, and ground-based drones for reconnaissance and combat operations. The intensification of Russian drone attacks in recent weeks has put pressure on Ukraine to develop effective countermeasures.
**NATO Summit and International Support**
Zelensky’s comments come ahead of next week’s NATO summit in The Hague, where he is set to attend. Ukraine is working with international partners to secure additional funding to support its defense industry and is preparing new agreements.
**Russia’s Peace Proposal Rejected**
Meanwhile, Russia’s envoy to the United Nations (UN), Vasily Nebenzya, has said that Russia’s memorandum on a peace proposal is the “best offer Ukraine can get today.” However, this proposal has been rejected by Ukraine, which continues to demand greater concessions from Russia.
**Escalating Conflict in Middle East**
The escalating conflict between Iran and Israel will likely impact efforts to impose new restrictions on Russian oil exports. Ukraine has been calling for a lower price cap on Russian oil, but diplomats say that the current situation makes it impossible to impose new restrictions.
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