Besides unveiling long-range strike systems, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine is moving closer to producing Patriot missile systems domestically and proposed a joint European anti-ballistic shield under the FREYJA initiative.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky | Photo source: X/@ZelenskyyUa
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.
Advertisement
Addressing the nation, Zelenskyy said Ukraine’s new missile capabilities had reached a range of 2,884 kilometres, citing Russia’s Omsk oil refinery as an example of a potential distance within reach. He said the systems were designed to disrupt Russia’s military infrastructure and resources supporting its war effort, while accusing Moscow of continuing attacks on civilian areas in Ukraine.
Advertisement
“These are not merely systems under development, but real capabilities that are already operational,” Zelenskyy said, adding that Ukraine’s strikes were aimed at facilities linked to Russia’s military campaign rather than civilian targets.
The Ukrainian leader also announced that Kyiv was moving closer to an agreement that could allow it to produce Patriot missile systems, saying Ukraine could become the third country in history to secure such an arrangement.
Zelenskyy thanked US President Donald Trump for what he called a “historic” political decision, saying the move could help save thousands of lives by strengthening Ukraine’s air defence capabilities.
However, defence experts said the production of Patriot systems in Ukraine could take at least a year to begin, meaning Kyiv may continue to face shortages of interceptor missiles in the near term. With Russia continuing missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure, Ukraine may have to make difficult decisions over which targets receive priority protection.
Zelenskyy also announced the launch of the FREYJA project, aimed at developing 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,” he said, arguing that stronger air defences would reduce Europe’s dependence on decisions made by Russia’s leadership.
During his Statehood Day address, which also marked the Day of the Baptism of Kyivan Rus–Ukraine, Zelenskyy highlighted Ukraine’s historical identity and its ambition to strengthen its future as a sovereign European state.
He also paid tribute to Ukrainian soldiers who have died defending the country, saying their sacrifice represented Ukraine’s struggle for independence and the wider security of Europe.
In a separate message, Zelenskyy thanked European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for supporting Ukraine’s path towards European integration. He said Ukraine’s application, candidate status and accession process reflected the close ties between Ukraine and Europe, adding that he had signed legislation recognising these shared commitments.
The announcement comes as Ukraine continues efforts to expand domestic defence production and reduce reliance on foreign military supplies amid the prolonged conflict with Russia.
Advertisement
