On August 10, 2026, a key meeting dedicated to strategic issues of conducting the war took place in Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the Armed Forces command and representatives of the security structures to discuss the progress of long-range operations against the Russian Federation. During the meeting, attended by Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Mykhailo Drapata, Chief of the General Staff Ihor Skibiuk, and Acting Minister of Defense Yevhen Khmara, important decisions were made to adjust current plans and approve new strikes.
Strategy of Long-Range Operations and New Targets
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in his Telegram message, confirmed that Ukraine's long-range capabilities remain one of the critically important tools in the confrontation with Russia. The President emphasized that the precision of such operations allows Kyiv not to yield the initiative to the enemy and creates conditions for possible diplomatic solutions. "Part of the operations were adjusted, and new operations were approved," the head of state stated. According to the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), key targets remain the fuel industry, defense enterprises, and logistics hubs supporting the Russian defense industry. In the first half of 2026, Ukrainian Deep Strike assets have already hit 697 targets on Russian territory.
Situation at the Front and Strengthening Air Defense
In addition to strategic strikes on the enemy's rear, special attention at the meeting was paid to the situation on the front line. Issues of strengthening key directions, in particular in the Donetsk region, were discussed. Zelenskyy noted that decisions on strengthening defense have already been prepared, and additional measures will be taken. A separate block of the agenda was dedicated to air defense. The President emphasized that protecting frontline communities, regional centers, and Kyiv from Russian strikes must remain an absolute priority. Zelenskyy also called on partner states to continue providing assistance in strengthening Ukraine's air defense.
Role of Intelligence and Military Structures
During the meeting, Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the military and intelligence officers ensuring the conduct of long-range operations. In particular, he noted the work of the Armed Forces' Unmanned Systems Forces, missile troops, as well as the Security Service of Ukraine and intelligence agencies. The coordination of actions of these structures allowed achieving high efficiency in hitting targets on enemy territory. The President emphasized that successes in this area directly affect the course of hostilities and Ukraine's ability to maintain the initiative.
Contradictory Data
Although the President's official message confirms the adjustment of plans and the approval of new strikes, there are discrepancies in information sources regarding personnel changes in the defense department. While the news text mentions that the meeting was held with Acting Minister of Defense Yevhen Khmara, other sources (e.g., Focus.ua) report on the appointment of Ihor Klymenko as Minister of Defense instead of Oleksandr Fedorov. This creates uncertainty regarding the current status of the leadership of the defense department at the time of the meeting. At the same time, the fact of the meeting and the approval of new operations is confirmed by the President's official channel.
