Zelenskyy sees 'clear evidence' of slowdown in Russian defense industry amid sanctions

By Burc Eruygur

ISTANBUL (AA) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday said that there is "clear evidence" of a slowdown in Russia's defense industry amid economic sanctions on Moscow.

“The world's sanctions are definitely working. And they are working well. There is clear evidence of a slowdown in the Russian defense industry. But for the sanctions to be one hundred percent effective, the schemes for circumventing the sanctions must also be one hundred percent blocked,” Zelenskyy said in a video address.

Speaking about details of a Staff of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief meeting earlier in the day, Zelenskyy said new global steps are also needed against those helping Russia and that they will discuss this further with Ukraine’s partners.

Zelenskyy said that the meeting discussed the supply of shells and drones, their distribution between brigades and units, and the daily needs of Ukrainian troops.

“The bottom line is that every aspect of logistics needs to be expedited. We also discussed the launch of new production lines for weapons and ammunition in Ukraine – at our enterprises and together with partners,” Zelenskyy further said.

He also said the meeting analyzed the work of the country’s air force and the results of the downing of Russian missiles and drones.

“We continue to work with all our partners to bolster our air defense. And at the same time, to increase pressure on Russia,” he added.

Zelenskyy also said that he spoke over the phone with his Romanian and Polish counterparts as well as the Belgian prime minister and discussed with them Ukraine’s work on his 10-step peace formula.

“We are working to make it both representative and meaningful. We are succeeding, and I thank everyone who contributes to the cause!” he said.