Zelenskyy proposes “airport truce,” calls missile defence top Priority

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proposed the introduction of an “airport truce” while emphasising that missile defence development remains Ukraine’s top national priority.

Speaking at an online meeting of the International Advisory Group on attracting investment and economic development, Zelenskyy highlighted progress in strengthening domestic air defence capabilities but stressed the need for continued international support.

“I believe that it is a great progress that we have begun to develop our own Ukrainian air defence. But without the help of other partners, it is difficult to achieve the necessary speed. I believe that missile defence is the number one priority. Therefore, this year we will try to focus on this, and I hope we will succeed in our work with other European partners on our joint anti-ballistic system,” he said.

Zelenskyy also called for increased pressure on Russia, arguing that stronger sanctions would help bring the war to an end. He urged international partners not to ease restrictions but to intensify them.

The president additionally focused on Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts, expressing hope that an upcoming recovery conference in Gdańsk would result in concrete projects, particularly to reinforce energy infrastructure ahead of the winter season.

He reiterated the importance of advancing Ukraine’s integration with the European Union, including progress in opening negotiation clusters, and thanked the bloc for a €90 billion support program for the Ukrainian economy.

By Tamilla Hasanova