Volodymyr Zelensky decorated dozens of Ukrainian defense industry employees yesterday, highlighting the crucial role of local manufacturers in the country's military resistance. The event marked the sector's professional holiday, officially celebrated on April 13, the day Russia launched a new wave of ballistic missiles on the city of Sumy.
"We have every right to respond to the attacks. It is absolutely right to treat the murderers as they deserve," said the head of state, recalling that over 40% of the weapons used on the front line are manufactured in Ukraine itself.
Volodymyr Zelensky He stressed that over 300.000 Ukrainians work today in the enterprises that supply drones, missiles, shells and artillery pieces. "I am proud of our people. Their work not only protects lives, but also forces Russia to accept the reality of Ukrainian power," he added.
According to the leader in Kyiv, the government is preparing a large-scale program to expand production lines, both through domestic investment and international partnerships. The announced goal is to "ensure long-term national security" and maintain a "clear technological advantage" over Moscow.
Military officials indicate that domestic ammunition deliveries increased by over 25% in the first quarter of 2025, and new models of kamikaze drones produced in Dnipro and Zaporizhzhya have already been tested on the eastern front.
In addition to the military sector, Volodymyr Zelensky met yesterday with entrepreneurs from the Odessa region, where repeated shelling has damaged port infrastructure and supply chains. The discussions focused on expanding the maritime corridor for exports, restoring damaged industrial equipment and introducing preferential tax programs.
“We are working on a stronger air shield for the south, so that local companies can continue to create jobs,” the president said. According to the Economy Ministry, the Odessa region has lost about 12.000 jobs since the beginning of the year, but investments in repairs and new infrastructure could reverse the trend in the second half.
Volodymyr Zelensky said that "Russia must come to terms with the inevitability of Ukraine's power." He reiterated that lasting peace can only be achieved when Moscow understands Kiev's growing military capabilities. "Our drones, Ukrainian missiles and equipment produced here will protect the lives of our people," the Ukrainian leader said.
Meanwhile, Western military analysts believe that the decreasing dependence on imports gives the Ukrainian army greater flexibility and reduces pressure on NATO allies, even if the need for modern anti-aircraft systems remains high.
