Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the supply of artillery shells to Ukraine has slowed due to the Israel-Hamas war, Bloomberg reports. The demand for 155-millimeter shells, crucial for Ukraine’s weapons deliveries, has increased as the war in the Middle East unfolds. Zelenskyy acknowledged a decrease in supplies and emphasized the challenges faced by Ukraine in defending itself during the ongoing counteroffensive against Russia.

The outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war has raised concerns about allies’ ability to remain focused on supporting Ukraine, especially as the European Union signals potential delays in delivering promised artillery rounds. Zelenskyy  told a group of journalists in Kyiv that in discussions with Western allies, he expresses the need for continued support, citing the shifting focus due to events in the Middle East.

The Ukrainian president highlighted efforts to secure aid from the West, with a delegation visiting Washington. However, challenges persist, as House lawmakers passed a funding bill without aid to Ukraine, facing resistance from Republican lawmakers.

Zelenskyy also mentioned intelligence indicating Russia’s attempts to create domestic chaos in Ukraine through disinformation campaigns, known as “Maidan 3.” He asserted that Moscow seeks to destabilize Ukrainian society and remove him from office. Despite challenges and disruptions in military assistance, Zelenskyy reaffirmed his government’s commitment to avoiding a frozen war and rejected negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin.