**Ukraine’s President Vows to Keep Pressure on Russia Amid Continuing Operations**
In a recent address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that his country’s forces are continuing operations inside Russia’s Kursk and Belgorod oblasts. This move is seen as a bold step towards putting pressure on Russian authorities, who have refused to accept a full ceasefire.
Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine will not back down from its goal of defending its positions and maintaining control over its territory. He stressed that the war must be felt where it began, implying that Russia should take responsibility for the ongoing conflict.
**Accelerating Missile Production**
In related news, Zelenskyy convened a meeting to discuss accelerating the development and production of ballistic missile systems. This move is significant, as Ukraine’s reliance on Western missile systems has been a major limitation in its long-range strike capabilities.
The Ukrainian president emphasized that his country’s ballistic missile capabilities are essential for ensuring its security. He noted that while drone production has flourished, with millions of domestically produced UAVs being deployed, missile development faces more challenges.
**F-16 Fighter Jet Program**
Zelenskyy also met to discuss Ukraine’s F-16 fighter jet program, which aims to enhance the country’s air defense capabilities. The program involves training pilots and deploying aircraft for operational use.
This move is seen as a crucial step towards bolstering Ukraine’s air defenses, particularly in key areas such as Donetsk Oblast, where Ukrainian forces continue to hold their ground.
**Russian Disinformation**
The announcement comes amid conflicting claims regarding the situation in Russia’s Kursk region. Russian authorities claimed that the final settlement of Gornal had been “liberated from the Ukrainian Armed Forces,” but Ukraine’s General Staff dismissed this claim, stating that combat operations are ongoing.
This episode highlights the challenges faced by Ukraine in countering Russian disinformation and propaganda efforts.
**Missile Strike on Kharkiv Oblast**
Separately, a ballistic missile struck the city of Kharkiv Oblast at around 11:30, killing four civilians, injuring 20 others, and damaging administrative and residential buildings. This incident serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing human toll of the conflict.
In conclusion, Zelenskyy’s announcement underscores Ukraine’s commitment to continuing operations inside Russian territory and its efforts to bolster its military capabilities through programs such as ballistic missile development and F-16 fighter jet acquisition. As the war continues to unfold, it is essential for all parties involved to work towards a peaceful resolution that prioritizes human life and security.
