President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that strengthening the air defence system will reduce the number of "Russian devils in the Ukrainian sky."
What is known about the work on strengthening air defence in Ukraine
Christmas Eve during the war. Our soldiers shot down not only almost 30 "Shakhed" and several missiles, but also two more Russian "Su" [fighter aircraft — Ed.], the head of state noted.
He emphasized that only during the last week, Russian war criminals lost five aircraft in Ukraine.
This Christmas sets the right mood for the whole coming year - the mood of our possibilities. Opportunities in negotiations with partners. Possibilities in strengthening our air shield. Possibilities in protecting our home from Russian terrorists. The stronger our air defense will be, the fewer Russian "devils" there will be in our sky and on our land, the President noted.
Zelenskyy also thanked the Ukrainian military for their accuracy and strength.
Thank you to everyone who, both on Christmas and on weekdays, takes care of the defense of our state, who withstands enemy attacks and shows indomitability, no matter where he is: in the east and south or on the borders of our country, who is in battle and in positions, who saves and heals people. All our emergency services. Anyone who helps. Thanks to all of you, the head of state emphasized.
AFU set a new record for the destruction of Russian aircraft
AFU StratCom representatives noted that the Ukrainian military shot down 4 Su-34s of the criminal army of the Russian Federation during the last week and broke the record for the destruction of enemy aircraft in the Bryansk region [In May 2023, five Russian aircraft were shot down - Ed.].
The Su-34 is one of Russia's most advanced fighter-bombers, the number and production capabilities of which are limited. The simultaneous loss of 4 units is a tangible blow to the combat potential of the aggressor, StratCom analysts note.
The destruction of enemy aircraft is a remarkable success because the attacks of Russian aircraft cause severe losses on the front and losses in the rear.
The AFU StratCom states that air defence forces managed to surpass their success in destroying Su-35 and Su-34 aircraft and two Mi-8MTPR-1 helicopters over the Bryansk region.
The Patriot air defense system proves its effectiveness on the battlefield. An increase in the number of units of these systems can really bring Ukraine's victory closer, and most importantly — save the lives of Ukrainian soldiers and peaceful Ukrainians, the StratCom analysts admit.
The Netherlands' expected transfer of the first 18 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine will significantly improve the statistics of destroyed enemy targets.
