Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed fear that Russia could increase its attacks in Ukraine’s north east.
The President noted that this could be made possible following Russia’s recent gains near the city of Kharkiv.
MGAHAWANI.com understands that Russia has in the past few days been trying to penetrate Ukraine even as the country’s outgunned forces’ attempt to shore up a weakened front line.
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Ukraine President Zelensky disclosed that Russia somewhat overpowered his troops due to issues with military morale and staffing.
He added that some of the existing brigades are empty.
The President told the AFP News that the Ukraine’s air fleet was lacking and renewed calls for allies to send support in form of more air defence and fighter jets.
“Today we have about 25% of what we need to defend Ukraine,” Zelensky said of Ukraine’s air capabilities.
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“So that Russia does not have air superiority, our fleet should have 120 to 130 modern aircraft.” He added.
Zelensky noted that more soldiers were desperately needed at the frontlines.
“There are a serious number of brigades, existing brigades, which, a large number of them, are empty. We need to do this so that the guys have a normal rotation. Then their morale will be improved.” Zelensky said.
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It is important to note that the US government recently approved a new $61 billion aid package for Ukraine, which includes military support.
As earlier reported by world media, Russia recently started a summer offensive, taking over several villages on Ukraine’s north-eastern frontier near Kharkiv, which is the country’s second largest city.
According to Kharkiv’s regional governor Oleg Synegubov, nearly 10,000 people were forced to leave in just over a week.
“The situation is controlled by defenders of Ukraine,” he said.
