Kyiv, January 19, 2026 – The Europe Today: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on January 19 provided details of a briefing delivered by Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, outlining key personnel decisions and priority measures aimed at strengthening the country’s defense capabilities, according to media reports citing foreign sources.
Zelensky said the meeting focused on кадрові рішення (personnel decisions) intended to reinforce Ukraine’s defense structure. Among the agreed steps, he noted the nomination of a new deputy commander of the Ukrainian Air Forces, who will be responsible for overseeing short-range air defense systems.
“The second point is that an audit of the supply of weapons and the necessary equipment to the troops is ongoing. A guaranteed number of drones must be available for every combat brigade,” the president said.
Zelensky added that the third priority involves the continued development of a technological battlefield control system and enhancing the effectiveness of operations against Russian forces. He emphasized the launch of tools designed for the rapid analysis of every enemy strike and each Ukrainian combat operation.
The Verkhovna Rada approved the appointment of Mykhailo Fedorov as defense minister on January 14. Following the appointment, President Zelensky outlined the main priorities for the ministry, including establishing a baseline level of drone provisioning for combat brigades and conducting a comprehensive audit of defense funding.
