At NATO Summit, Zelensky Declares Russia’s Safe Rear Area Has Been Destroyed

Ukrainian President Addresses NATO Summit in Ankara

According to ХВИЛЯ: Speaking at the NATO summit in Ankara, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared that the concept of a secure strategic rear for Russia has been shattered. He reported that Ukrainian drones have struck oil refineries in Siberia, noting that there is now virtually no major refinery in Russia that has not been hit by Ukraine. Zelensky also stressed the urgent need to build strong defenses against Russian missiles and to support the production of Patriot systems in Ukraine.

Drone Deal Initiative and Calls to Partners

Zelensky invited partner nations to join an initiative called Drone Deal, under which EU countries, NATO members, Azerbaijan, and Gulf states could receive Ukrainian drones and develop joint production capabilities. Among those listening at the summit were European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. The Ukrainian president reminded the audience that Ukraine eliminates roughly 30,000 Russian soldiers each month, with the majority of these losses inflicted by drones. In June alone, Ukraine destroyed nearly 28,000 Russian troops.

Zelensky identified ballistic missiles as Russia’s last major advantage, urging Europe to back the production of Patriot systems in Ukraine and to accelerate the creation of a joint missile defense network.

“As long as this war continues, please help us with air defense missiles. That is our top priority. Everything else we can do ourselves,” he emphasized.

He also stated:

“No other country had such a deep rear area where it could safely place military production and equipment-everything that depends on war-while being certain that no one could reach it. But we reached it.”

Zelensky concluded his speech by raising the question of Ukraine’s NATO membership, noting that “if we already have these capabilities, if Ukrainians already know how to fight like this, then it is entirely logical for this potential to become part of the Alliance’s collective defense.”

Zelensky’s address at the NATO summit underscores Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to counter Russian aggression and the critical need for international support. The Drone Deal initiative could mark a key step in strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities and enhancing its security. The call for partners to support Patriot production in Ukraine highlights the pressing demand for modern air defense systems, which is critically important given current threats. Ukraine’s potential role in NATO’s collective defense also remains a significant issue requiring further discussion among allies.

As Ukraine continues to dismantle Russia's strategic advantages, the urgency for enhanced missile defense systems becomes increasingly clear. Zelensky's remarks at the NATO summit echo the concerns raised during the recent Ramstein meeting, where he highlighted a significant shortage in ballistic missile defense capabilities. This ongoing dialogue emphasizes the critical need for international support to fortify Ukraine's defenses.