Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude to Sweden for its 18th and largest defense package to Ukraine, amounting to 13.5 billion SEK ($1.23 billion). In a tweet, Zelenskyy thanked Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, the Swedish government, and the people of Sweden for their unwavering support in enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities amid ongoing tensions with Russia.
“We are extremely grateful that this military assistance fulfills the Ukrainian army’s pressing needs and greatly enhances our defense capabilities,” Zelenskyy said in his post. He highlighted the critical role of Swedish investments in Ukrainian weapons production and long-range defense capabilities, emphasizing their importance in maintaining peace through strength.
He further stated, “Threats like Russia’s do not stop on their own; they advance only until the line where they are met with strength. To maintain peace and save lives, we must continue fortifying this border between the Black Sea and the Baltic.”
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy shared updates about a tragic Russian drone strike in Sumy. A Shahed drone strike on a residential building resulted in nine fatalities, including a child, and injuries to thirteen others. Zelenskyy expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and assured that all those affected were receiving the necessary support. “Everyone is getting what they need,” he said, underscoring the devastating toll of the ongoing conflict.
Al Jazeera confirmed that the drone strike in the northern Ukrainian city of Sumy left at least four people dead and nine others wounded, including a toddler, further highlighting the escalating humanitarian crisis in the region.