Ukraine shows it can respond effectively and use its military potential against important facilities that support the Russian army. On the night of October 7, 2024, Ukrainian drones attacked an oil terminal in occupied Feodosia, the largest oil processing facility in Crimea. The occupation authorities declared a state of emergency as a great fire broke out. Thus, Ukraine is demonstrating not only the ability to hold its positions, but also deliberately destroying critical infrastructure of the enemy, thereby weakening Russian forces and strengthening its own defense capabilities.
International partners provide significant support to the Ukrainian defense industry, helping to develop production and increase thedefense capabilities. German Rheinmetall defense concern andUkraine has formed a joint venture to produce and repair military equipment, including ammunition and armored vehicles. The United States also cooperates with Ukraine through Northrop Grumman, producing ammunition according to NATO standards. Denmark has allocated significant funds for the development of the Ukrainian military-industrial complex, including the production of drones and missiles and self-propelled howitzers. The Netherlands has provided F-16 fighters and is funding the development of drones. The European Union supports cooperationby joint purchases and the creation of production capacities to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities. These initiatives allow Ukraine to effectively counter Russian aggression and develop its defense industry.
Italy, as one of Ukraine’s important allies, also significantlysupports its defense industry. Rome has provided Ukraine with artillery, anti-tank systems, medical vehicles, and generators forcritical infrastructure. Italy’s military assistance is an important element in strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities and allows it to counter Russian aggression on various fronts. Moreover, Italy participates in the training of Ukrainian military personnel, which also enhances the effectiveness of the Ukrainian army on the front lines.
Ukraine’s key needs remain unchanged: air defense systems, including Patriot and SAMP/T, artillery systems and shells, long-range missiles, drones, and electronic warfare systems. These systems not only helps to deter Russian attacks, but to protect Ukrainian skies from enemy aviation.
Drones play a special role in the war, becoming the main attack weapon of ground units. Ukraine actively increases the production of combat drones, and works with partners to create a powerful drone manufacturing industry, including marine and aviation technologies. These innovations help protect the country from Russian aggression. Drone production is growing every month. Ukraine has already signed contracts for the production of a million drones. In the future, it plans to produce more than three million drones annually in cooperation with international partners.
On October 12, 2024, the historic 25th Ramstein meeting will be held, for the first time at the level of heads of state, chaired by US President Joe Biden. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will present the Victory Plan to the allies, which implements his Peace Formula of a just end to the war and the full restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity. It consists of ten key points onsecurity, territorial restoration, holding the aggressor accountable, and ensuring global stability. Zelenskyy’s plan requires unconditional support, as it is the only way to ensure a sustainable and just peace.
Unlike Ukraine’s Victory Plan, the Chinese “peace plan” is more focused on improving China’s international image and discouraging the West’s criticism. It does not address important issues such as holding the aggressor accountable and returning the occupied territories, and, in fact, serves Beijing’s diplomatic interests. China avoids direct involvement in the conflict, but continues to support Russia to its strategic advantages and minimize risks to its economy.
The upcoming Ramstein meeting is an opportunity to make strategic decisions that can significantly strengthen Ukraine’s defense and bring a just end to the war closer. The agreements reached would not only help strengthen Ukraine’s position on the battlefield, but also strengthen international unity. Only joint efforts of the allies can ensure successful opposition to the enemy, protection of Ukraine’s sovereignty and stability in Europe.
The United States, Great Britain, France, Germany, Italy’s and others support remains a decisive factor on the path to lasting peace. The consolidation of the international community and active cooperation make it possible to provide Ukraine with the necessary resources and technologies, as well as to create collective security mechanisms to reduce the risks of further expansion of the war.
