Zelenskyy Announces Ukraine’s Plan to Increase Domestic Arms Production Amid Ongoing War with Russia

KYIV, Ukraine — The newly approved Ukrainian government is set to accelerate domestic arms production in a bid to meet half of the country’s weapons needs within six months, as stated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This move comes amid ongoing efforts to counter Russia’s invasion.

On the same day, Switzerland announced that the U.S. Defense Department would be reallocating a Swiss order for Patriot air defense systems to support Ukraine. These systems are crucial for improving Ukraine’s defenses against heavy Russian air assaults.

The Swiss Defense Ministry confirmed it had been notified by the U.S. about the reprioritization of their order, which initially included five Patriot systems. The delivery of these systems to Switzerland was originally scheduled to commence in 2027 and conclude in 2028.

It is currently unclear whether these systems will be sent directly to Ukraine or if they will instead replace units in other European nations that might then contribute to Ukraine’s defense. As Russia intensifies its summer offensive, bombarding Ukrainian cities with drones and missiles, the urgency for supplying Ukraine’s military becomes more pressing.

While U.S. support for Ukraine includes promises of advanced weapons such as the Patriot systems, specifics on delivery timelines remain vague. U.S. ambassador to NATO, Matthew Whitaker, emphasized ongoing efforts to expedite military assistance, though he could not confirm exact dates.

Additionally, Ukraine currently produces approximately 40% of its own military supplies. In light of potential delays in foreign shipments, President Zelenskyy urged for expanded domestic production to increase their military capacity.

He expressed a goal for Ukrainian-made arms to constitute 50% of total supplies in the upcoming months, aiming to shift the warfare dynamic back onto Russian territory. Recent reports indicate a notable increase in drone activity on both sides, with Ukrainian forces reportedly launching drones into Russian territory and facing significant retaliation.

The battle for air supremacy continues as the conflict evolves.