Following the Supreme Commander-in-Chief's meeting (the Stavka), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a series of decisions aimed at strengthening the country's defense against Russian strikes on critical infrastructure and logistics. According to him, the key item on the agenda was contracts for the production of defense systems for critical infrastructure and logistics facilities, as well as a detailed analysis of the needs of Ukrzaliznytsia, gas station networks, and enterprises that, in Kyiv's assessment, are particularly significant targets for Russian attacks.
The Stavka and contracts for the protection of critical infrastructure
The head of state noted that during the meeting a report from the intelligence services was reviewed, which, in his words, established which facilities are primarily targeted by Russian forces in their approved plans. On this basis, Zelensky stated, decisions on protection were made: in particular, this involves a substantial strengthening of the electronic warfare (EW) component and an increase in the volume of corresponding purchases, with the contracts, he said, already confirmed.
Strengthening EW and reformatting fire groups
In addition to expanding EW means, Zelensky reported that the work of certain mobile fire groups and air defense lines will be reorganized. This, as envisaged by Kyiv, should increase the flexibility and resilience of the air defense system and fire positions against enemy actions. The President also instructed the Ministry of Finance to provide additional resources for logistical needs, indicating the priority of maintaining the operability of transport and energy chains amid ongoing strikes.
Logistics, Ukrzaliznytsia, and border routes
Separately, the Stavka discussed challenges and possible joint steps with partners on logistics security in border areas with EU countries and Moldova. Zelensky reported that a report on Ukrzaliznytsia's capabilities to repair rolling stock and supply equipment was presented; he emphasized the importance of partners' support for UZ continuing and of state banks also supporting the railway carrier. According to him, the Cabinet of Ministers is preparing decisions on creating reserve logistics routes in frontline regions, with algorithms for combining rail and road routes worked out.
Protecting gas stations and intercepting 'Shaheds'
On the same day, September 15, Zelensky reported that Ukraine had successfully tested another interceptor for Russian 'Shahed' jet drones. Meanwhile, on gas stations in the Kyiv region, security measures will be strengthened in case of air attacks: gas station workers will be given access to a special digital air awareness system used by the Defense Forces. The totality of these measures, according to Kyiv's reports, is aimed at reducing the vulnerability of fuel infrastructure and logistics facilities, which remain in the focus of Russian strikes.
