Putin acknowledges need to strengthen air defense after drone attacks

Russian President Vladimir Putin has admitted that the nation's air defense system requires improvement following a series of drone incursions into Russian territory. Speaking at a meeting with international journalists in St. Petersburg, Putin acknowledged that "some Ukrainian drones do reach Russia" and emphasized the necessity of bolstering the country's air defenses.

"Russia has an air defense system. Yes, we must improve it. Yes, we must strengthen it. And we will do it," Putin stated, according to AFP. These remarks came in the wake of recent Ukrainian drone strikes, which occurred during the annual St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

During the same meeting, Putin reiterated Russia's willingness to engage in peaceful negotiations, but he also called for Ukraine to make concessions. He suggested that if Ukraine were to agree to a deal based on principles previously discussed with then-U.S. President Donald Trump, the conflict could be resolved quickly. Putin also claimed that Russian forces are advancing on all fronts and that Ukraine is facing "catastrophic" difficulties with soldier recruitment.

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Russia has an air defense system. Yes, we must improve it. Yes, we must strengthen it. And we will do it.