Putin Says Russia Must Strengthen Air Defenses as Ukrainian Territorial Gains Continue

Russian President Vladimir Putin called for strengthening the country's air defense systems as military dynamics shift on the Ukrainian battlefield. The pace of Russian advances has slowed since the end of 2024, with recent data showing Ukraine has regained more territory than it has lost for the second consecutive month. The territorial developments represent a notable shift in the conflict's trajectory, as Ukrainian forces appear to be making incremental gains against Russian positions after months of largely defensive operations.