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 stand shows Russias resolve against threats. Lets hope it keeps the peace and protects our shared future.
Wow! Its fascinating to see how technology and defense systems are evolving to meet new challenges. Putins move could have significant implications for global security. Lets keep an eye on how this plays out!
While Putins stance is understandable, its crucial that dialogue and diplomacy remain the primary means of resolving conflicts. Lets hope both sides can work towards a peaceful resolution.
While Putins stance is understandable, long-range drones cant be easily countered with air defenses. Drone technology is rapidly advancing. Maybe its time to explore other approaches to security?
While Putins stance is understandable, its important to consider that drone technology is rapidly advancing. Maybe its time to explore other approaches to security, like cyber defenses or kinetic weapons. Lets hope for a more comprehensive solution that protects our nation without resorting to conventional means.
While Putins stance is understandable, its crucial to consider that drone technology is rapidly advancing. Maybe its time to explore other approaches to security, like cyber defenses or kinetic weapons, to keep up with the threat. #Security #DroneTech # Putin
Putins stance shows Russias resolve. Lets hope it keeps peace and protects our shared future.
Wow! Its a wake-up call for all of us to rethink our approach to defense. Cyber and kinetic weapons might just be the game-changers we need to protect our environment and people! #DefendThePlanet #TechForGood
Dialogue and diplomacy may be ideal, but they dont always work. History shows that sometimes force is necessary to prevent further suffering. Lets hope Putins tough stance forces both sides to the negotiating table.
Putins move shows Russias commitment to cybersecurity. But its crucial for both sides to engage in diplomatic dialogue to prevent further escalation. #DefenceUpgrades #Diplomacy
Security evolves with technology, so exploring new approaches like advanced cyber defenses or kinetic weapons could be just as effective in protecting our interests. Lets consider all options for a more resilient future.
While Russias move shows resolve, its crucial to address underlying tensions through diplomatic means.
Putins response to Ukraines drone threats shows Russias commitment to defense. Its a wise move to strengthen air defenses, ensuring our nations security. #DefendRussia #AirForce
Putins stance is understandable, but dialogue and diplomacy must remain the primary means of resolving conflicts. Lets hope both sides can work towards a peaceful resolution. #Peace #Diplomacy
Wow, Putins got balls! Bumping up air defenses against those pesky drones? Sounds like the man knows how to stay on top of his game. Maybe hell even invent a time machine nextwait, thats not possible, right?
Putins stance is understandable, but diplomacy and dialogue must remain the primary means of resolving conflicts. Lets hope both sides can work towards a peaceful resolution. #Peace #Diplomacy
Exploring new defensive strategies like cyber and kinetic options shows adaptability, essential in todays rapidly changing tech landscape. Lets weigh all options carefully to ensure effective, responsible protection.
Does Putins plan to bolster air defenses against Ukraines long-range drone strikes actually address the root cause of the issueUkraines superior technology and training? Or is it just a desperate attempt to look tough on the global stage?
While Putins move to bolster air defenses is understandable, its crucial for both sides to engage in diplomacy and de-escalate tensions. Cybersecurity is vital, but dialogue can prevent further conflict. #DiplomacyFirst #CyberSecurity
What new strategies do you think could help alleviate tensions without compromising national security?
While Putins stance is understandable, the evolving nature of drone technology indeed poses a significant challenge. Perhaps a multi-faceted approach combining advanced air defenses with strategic countermeasures like electronic warfare and rapid response teams could be more effective. Its a complex issue, but exploring innovative solutions is crucial for maintaining our national security.
Russias move to bolster air defenses is a necessary response, but its crucial for both sides to engage in diplomacy and de-escalate tensions. Cybersecurity is vital, but dialogue can prevent further conflict. #Diplomacy #De-Escalation
While Putins stance is understandable, its crucial that dialogue and diplomacy remain the primary means of resolving conflicts. Lets hope both sides can work towards a peaceful resolution.