President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky announced this on Telegram, Ukrinform reports.
"For the first time in this Staff format, the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Mykhailo Drapatyi, reported on the situation at the front. The key sectors, with particular attention to Sloviansk and Kostiantynivka, as well as the Zaporizhzhia direction. I am grateful to all our units for eliminating Russian occupiers and repelling assaults. The situation at the front is tough, and we will look for opportunities to expand all programs supporting Ukrainian units," the President said.
He noted that the meeting also focused on implementing the long-range sanctions plan against Russia for its war against Ukraine.
"Implementation is sufficiently steady – the objectives are being achieved,” Zelensky said.
The President said that logistical challenges, Russian strikes on Odesa and the region, attacks on port infrastructure, and threats to the maritime corridor were discussed in detail. Reports were delivered by representatives of relevant institutions, including Commander of the Ukrainian Navy Oleksii Neizhpapa, Chief of the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine Oleh Ivashchenko, and Prime Minister Sergii Koretskyi.
According to Zelensky, the Prime Minister reported on work with the partners in our region that can expand cross-border cooperation with Ukraine. The President thanked neighboring countries for their willingness to provide practical assistance.
"Next week, I expect to receive from the Government a clear list of measures to ensure the diversification of export routes," Zelensky said.
The President explained that effective cooperation on grain exports and ensuring reliable logistics contributes to global food security and helps prevent a cost-of-living crisis in countries and regions bordering Europe, including the Middle East and North Africa.
"Any social instability there caused by a possible rise in food prices and the overall cost of living would mean new tangible risks for Europe. Every such crisis in regions neighboring Europe triggers additional waves of migration. Therefore, genuinely guaranteeing food security and protecting against Russian terror targeting the agricultural sector and maritime trade routes is in the direct interest of all of us in Europe," he said.
Zelensky added that there were also intelligence reports on Russia’s intentions to launch further strikes against Ukraine and our vessels.
"We are preparing countermeasures. Today, we updated the list of requests from Ukraine’s Defense Forces for the supplies they need from our partners. I will speak with leaders about this," he said.
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Photo: Office of the President of Ukraine