Ukraine Strengthens Air Defense in Odessa and Dnipro

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced plans to reinforce air defense systems in the cities of Odessa and Dnipro, both of which have been frequent targets of Russian attacks.

He said new radar systems, electronic jamming equipment and additional personnel will be deployed to Dnipro, with similar measures planned for Odessa. At the same time, he indicated that the effectiveness of the defenses is gradually improving, with interception rates for drones and missiles continuing to rise.

According to the president, Russian strikes are deliberately designed to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses. Dnipro and the Black Sea port area of Odessa have been among the most frequently targeted locations in recent days.

Ukraine is also seeking to modernize its defenses, gradually replacing older systems with equipment supplied by Western partners.

Zelensky also announced a broader reform of the armed forces, which is expected to include higher salaries for frontline soldiers and a review of long-term service arrangements.

(DPA, tasr, mja)