President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has introduced newly appointed Defense Minister Yevhenii Khmara to ministry staff, outlining priorities that include strengthening air defense, expanding long-range strike capabilities and improving coordination with Ukraine’s armed forces. The meeting was held on Aug. 20, according to the Ukrainian presidential office. Zelenskyy called for closer cooperation between the Defense Ministry and the military, along with faster responses to developments in the war. He instructed the ministry to audit agreements with international partners and determine which commitments have been fulfilled and which remain outstanding. The president identified air defense and protection against ballistic threats as key priorities ahead of winter. He also called for stronger protection of frontline communities, including those in Kherson, Dnipro, Sumy and Chernihiv regions, and for the development of capabilities to counter Russian guided bombs and aircraft. Khmara said his agenda would focus on strengthening troops, supporting military personnel and expanding the defense industry. He pledged to improve supplies, training, medical care and recovery services, while accelerating weapons production, expanding drone capabilities and reducing bureaucracy in procurement and military decision-making. Post navigation Ukraine President’s Day of Diplomacy and Remembrance Zelenskyy Calls for Stronger Defense Coordination