26 августа 2026

Together with Mykhailo Drapatyi, the General Staff, and Defense Minister Khmara, we determined the sequence of our next steps. First, our positions in the Donetsk region will be reinforced by two restructured force groupings, to be commanded by Hero of Ukraine Denys Prokopenko and Hero of Ukraine Andrii Biletskyi. Today, I awarded Andrii the Golden Star of the Hero of Ukraine. There was a report from the Commander of the Airborne Assault Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, General Apostol. Thank you, Oleh, for the remarkable strength of the Airborne Assault Forces. I am proud of every warrior. The second important matter today was our discussion with commanders here in the Zaporizhzhia sector. There will be more of the necessary equipment. This concerns UGVs – decisions are needed to increase both production and procurement. There will also be decisions on a more systematic approach to mid-range strikes. The Minister, the Commander-in-Chief, and I agreed on the necessary personnel decisions. This is important.