KYIV, July 15 : Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday announced a major advancement in the country's defence capabilities, saying Ukraine has developed operational ballistic missiles and deep-strike systems capable of hitting targets up to 2,884 kilometres away.
The announcement, made during his Ukrainian Statehood Day address, comes as Kyiv seeks to expand its ability to strike strategic targets and strengthen its defence independence amid the ongoing war with Russia.
Addressing the nation on Ukrainian Statehood Day, Zelenskyy said Ukraine's new missile capabilities had reached a range of 2,884 kilometres, citing the distance to Russia's Omsk oil refinery as an example.He said the weapons were aimed at disrupting Russia's war infrastructure and the resources supporting its military campaign, while accusing Moscow of targeting civilian areas in Ukraine.
"These are not merely systems under development, but real capabilities that are already operational," Zelenskyy said, adding that Ukraine was targeting facilities supporting Russia's war effort rather than civilian infrastructure.
Zelenskyy also announced that Ukraine was moving closer to an agreement that could allow it to produce Patriot missile systems, saying the country could become the third nation in history to secure such a deal.
He thanked US President Donald Trump for what he described as a "historic" political decision, saying the move could help save thousands of lives in Ukraine.
The Ukrainian leader further announced the launch of the FREYJA project, aimed at creating a joint European anti-ballistic defence shield by integrating the continent's defence capabilities.
"We will do everything necessary to build Europe's anti-ballistic system," Zelenskyy said, arguing that stronger air defences would reduce dependence on decisions made by Russia's leadership.
Marking Ukrainian Statehood Day and the Day of the Baptism of Kyivan Rus-Ukraine, Zelenskyy highlighted Ukraine's historical identity and said the country was focused on shaping its future as a sovereign European state.
He also paid tribute to Ukrainian soldiers who died defending the country, saying their sacrifice represented the struggle for Ukraine's independence and Europe's security. (UNI)
