Zelensky: Ukraine has produced a record number of artillery systems and is preparing new ballistic weapons.

President Volodymyr Zelensky stated during a press conference on February 23 that Ukraine plans to significantly increase its own weapons production by 2025. Last year, domestic manufacturers produced 154 artillery systems, which is a record and more than all NATO countries combined. The president also reported the production of 2.2 million drones and 100,000 long-range drones, as well as successful testing of new samples of Ukrainian weapons.

Ukraine has also increased its spending on defense, contributing 40% of expenses, while Europe and the USA contributed 30% each. Zelensky noted that this year he and his team plan to increase the contribution to 50%. The president also expressed his outrage at the state of military service and called for addressing issues of military rotations and increasing vacations.

Zelensky supported the idea of expanding benefits for new contracts for volunteers aged 18-24, but emphasized that the transition to a contract army should be cautious so as not to weaken the front. The president also expressed his position on the creation of a united European army and negotiations with the Russian Federation.

Zelensky is also willing to relinquish his duties in exchange for security guarantees and resolving disputes with Trump.