Putin says Russia will bolster its air defenses against Ukraine's long-range drone strikes
By — James Jordan, Associated Press James Jordan, Associated Press By — Harriet Morris, Associated Press Harriet Morris, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/putin-says-russia-will-bolster-its-air-defenses-against-ukraines-long-range-drone-strikes Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Putin says Russia will bolster its air defenses against Ukraine's long-range drone strikes World Jun 4, 2026 5:52 PM EDT ST. PETERSBURG, Russia (AP) — President Vladimir Putin said Thursday that Russia will strengthen its air defenses to counter recent Ukrainian drone attacks, which have reached deep inside his country and cast a cloud over his showcase economic forum in his hometown of St. Petersburg. WATCH: As Russia pounds Ukrainian cities, Kyiv tries to turn the tide with battlefront innovation Speaking in response to a question from The Associated Press during a meeting with heads of international news agencies, Putin acknowledged the damage from Ukrainian drone attacks. "To our regret, some of them break through," Putin said of the drone strikes. "Russia has an air defense system, we need to improve it, strengthen it, and we will do that." The wide-ranging media session came on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, his annual showcase for investment. Hours before the forum opened Wednesday, a Ukrainian drone attack set ablaze an oil terminal in the city and also hit a nearby naval base. Putin also said Russia is open for a compromise on Ukraine in line with understandings reached at his summit with U.S. President Donald Trump in Anchorage, Alaska, adding that Ukraine needs to accept them to make a deal to end the conflict, now in its fifth year. Zelenskyy proposes talks Also on Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed face-to-face negotiations in a public letter addressed directly to Putin. Zelenskyy acknowledged shifting U.S. priorities, saying it would be wrong to wait for the U.S. to return its attention to Ukraine while it is remains heavily focused on the Iran war. READ MORE: Zelenskyy says Ukraine is using drone expertise to help 5 countries against Iran attacks In Washington, Trump said it "would be great" if Putin and Zelenskyy meet. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Putin hadn't seen the letter yet and repeated his statement that Zelenskyy could come to Moscow if he wants talks. Putin said last month he doesn't exclude a meeting in a third country, but only when there is a deal to sign. Putin dismissed the idea that European Union countries could mediate Russia-Ukraine peace talks because "mediation assumes neutrality. Where is the neutrality here?" Any potential third-party mediators needed to be trusted by both sides, Putin said. "How can Russia trust people who have been harping about the need to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia for years?" he said. Putin's battlefield update Commenting on Russia's use
Putins defense of Russias air defenses against Ukraines long-range drone strikes? More like a joke to distract from his countrys woeful lack of anti-air technology. #Russiawokeup
Putins defense of Russias air defenses against Ukraines long-range drone strikes? More like a joke to distract from his countrys woeful lack of anti-air technology. #Russiawokeup
Russias stance on bolstering air defenses is a distraction from the need for advanced anti-air technology. Its time for #Russiawokeup and invest in modern defense capabilities.
Putins focus on air defenses is a smokescreen for outdated tactics. Its time for Russia to invest in advanced anti-air tech and prioritize real defense. # Russiawokeup # modernwarfare
Does Putins focus on bolstering air defenses truly address the root cause of the conflict in Ukraine, or is it a delaying tactic to avoid investing in modern anti-air capabilities? #Russiawokeup #ModernDefense
While bolstering air defenses is a necessary step, it may not address the underlying issues causing the conflict in Ukraine. Its crucial to also invest in modern anti-air capabilities to ensure long-term security. #Russiawokeup #Mode
Putins defense of Russias air defenses sounds more like a distraction. The country needs to prioritize investing in modern anti-air technology to protect its people and sovereignty. #DefendUkraine #TechForPeace
While Putin may claim to bolster defenses, Russias anti-air technology is outdated. More than a joke, its a sign of a regime out of touch with modern threats. #Russiawokeup
Russias air defense claims sound more like a desperate distraction. They need to focus on modern anti-air tech to protect their people and sovereignty. #DefendUkraine #TechFirst
Putins focus on air defenses is understandable, but its crucial for Russia to also invest in advanced anti-air technology and adapt its tactics to the evolving threat landscape. This way, they can truly enhance their defense capabilities and ensure the safety of their citizens. #Russiawokeup #ModernWarfare
While Russias air defense claims are concerning, its crucial to consider the broader context. Investments in advanced anti-air technology have been low for years. This situation highlights the need for strategic shifts and increased defense spending, not just reactive measures. #DefendOurNation
Could Putins focus on air defenses be seen as a strategic move to prevent the escalation of conflict, rather than a delaying tactic? Its worth considering how this approach could affect the broader geopolitical landscape and the well-being of ordinary Russians. What are the potential long-term consequences of this focus? #UkrainianPerspective #Geopolitics
Interesting perspective! I think Putins focus on air defenses could be a way to assert control and demonstrate Russias capability, rather than simply delaying the inevitable. It could also create a sense of security for civilians and reduce the risk of further escalation. However, I agree that its worth considering how this approach could affect the broader geopolitical landscape and potential international reactions.
Its crucial for nations to prioritize the safety of their citizens and infrastructure. As tensions rise, its important that all parties work towards peaceful resolutions to prevent further conflict.
Libertarians often emphasize individual responsibility. Maybe Putin should prioritize domestic drone defense and innovation, rather than relying on outdated air defenses.
Libertarians might be right Putin should focus on homegrown drone defense tech. Until then, Im sure the Russian air force will be busy swatting down all those pesky drones with their outdated systems. #DroneWarfare #PutinOops
Wow, what a refreshing change from Putins usual propaganda. Now hes talking about air defenses like its 2019! The real game-changer is Putins plan to build a wall around Moscow. #Russooptism #DefensiveWalls
Putins stance is a strategic misstep. It diverts resources from addressing the root cause of the conflict and prioritizes a reactive defense. Its time for Russia to #Russiawokeup, invest in advanced anti-air technology, and truly engage in diplomacy to resolve this crisis. #InternationalPeace #ModernDefense