Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday warned that no country can afford to fall behind in technological development when it comes to national security, citing Ukraine's use of low-cost drones to strike Russian strategic bombers.

According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy, speaking at the Global Security Forum about Ukraine's recent 'Spiderweb' operation, said inexpensive drones were used to strike Russian strategic bombers at distant military airfields-a move he called 'completely legitimate.' He highlighted how the technologies of war are evolving, noting that a decade ago, such a strike would have been unimaginable, and emphasizing the need for nations to keep pace with technological advancements in security.

Zelenskyy urged European countries to increase drone production and financing, emphasizing Ukraine's plans to expand its own drone production by 40% in the near future. While he acknowledged that Ukrainian factories have the capacity for this expansion, he pointed out that financing remains a critical need. He also praised Czechia's initiative to supply ammunition to Ukraine, presenting it as an example of how coordinated efforts can impact modern warfare.

The Ukrainian president also addressed the issue of sanctions, urging European nations to intensify economic pressure on Moscow, specifically targeting Russia's oil revenues. He suggested that capping the price of Russian oil at $30 a barrel could prompt a shift in Moscow's stance. Additionally, Zelenskyy called for closing all loopholes that contribute to funding the Russian federal budget.

Zelenskyy further stressed the importance of treating respect for human life as a fundamental security principle. He called for stronger political support for Ukraine, Moldova, and Balkan nations in their aspirations to join the EU and NATO. He concluded by asserting that real unity is essential in establishing secure conditions for neighboring countries, ensuring their actions do not pose threats to others or themselves.