Yesterday, February 19, the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting of the Stavka in a new, expanded format. Both the Commander-in-Chief and the commanders of the directions gave reports, and there were reports directly from the front line.
“We are leveling the situation, doing everything to prepare our actions, planned for the future, for the near future. And also what is being done now, these days, on the front lines. The commander-in-chief reported on the situation at the front in general, with a special emphasis on mobilization, specific the situation, why, how and what is being done. I listened to detailed reports at Stavka about every combat position, every hottest direction. I repeat again and again: what more will Russia lose right there, right in Donbas – Bakhmut, Vugledar, Maryinka, Kreminna , then we will be able to end this war sooner with the victory of Ukraine. There was a report by the Minister of Internal Affairs on the formation of new brigades of the “Offensive Guard”. There are very good results. This is a very useful experience of how people can and should be motivated. And this format of work is like at Stavka , as well as in informing about defense management – I will support. I want our people to know and understand what and how we prepare, what and how we control. Of course, military issues, details of intelligence operations – this is something in which you cannot tell everything. But I want our people to have predictability right now. And the feeling is that Ukraine is moving towards its goals,” informed Volodymyr Zelenskyi.
He noted that a new sanction step of the state of Ukraine has been put into effect against all those who fuel Russian aggression.
“I signed a decree on the implementation of the decision of the National Security Council regarding sanctions against Russian financial entities. These are sanctions against Ukraine. But each such sanctions package of ours becomes the basis of work on sanctions with partners. Currently, the preparation of the next European Union sanctions package is underway – the tenth. We are working with partners to strengthen it. But at the same time, we are working with other subjects of global relations. Sanctions for terror are something in which the efforts of each responsible state can push the global process. And it will,” added the Head of State.
Volodymyr Zelenskyi said that he had a conversation with French President Macron, in particular regarding further defense support, protection of the Ukrainian people and the whole of Europe.
“I thank Mr. President for understanding our needs and for the common feeling that we cannot lose a single opportunity and a single week in defense against Russian aggression. We discussed our joint diplomatic efforts with France, our cooperation on international platforms. As well as important decisions, which we are preparing for this week – for the year of our indomitability”, – noted the President of Ukraine.
He also added that he held several meetings with government officials and with our international bloc – the Office and the Government, as well as with representatives of the defense sector.