Zelensky welcomes increased weapons deliveries from the West

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted increased arms deliveries from Western allies at a meeting with leading military figures on Monday.

“The results regarding deliveries for artillery have improved,” he said in a Telegram message. This means that Ukraine’s partners have moved closer to the pledges they have made, he said.

Last Wednesday, Zelensky complained that his country had only received around 10% of the aid approved by the US Congress.

The topic of expanding Ukrainian drone production was also raised, particularly with regard to long-range drones. Manufacturers are to receive three- to five-year contracts, in a bid to give producers a perspective for development and investment.

Ukraine has been defending itself against the Russian invasion with Western help for more than two and a half years. Both sides are making extensive use of combat drones against targets in the enemy’s hinterland.

Kiev relies heavily on Western backing, which is a key issue ahead of the US presidential elections on Tuesday, as the candidates differ widely in their views on Ukraine.

While Democratic candidate Kamala Harris is likely to continue Washington’s current support for Kiev, former president Donald Trump has long criticized US spending on Ukraine.