Russian President Vladimir Putin said his nation’s troops are still experiencing some weapons shortages despite increases in production demands.
Before a meeting of Russia’s Military-Industrial Commission on Wednesday, Mr. Putin confirmed that the country had met all of its defense production goals last year. However, those goals may not have been enough, with Mr. Putin adding that some Russian military members lack the necessary equipment.
“I know very well, and many here who are participating in our meeting today know it as well as I do: There are still not enough of these weapons,” he said. “Not enough.”
Mr. Putin stated that Russia’s ground forces are eagerly waiting for the delivery of recently increased production, especially drones.
Mr. Putin’s comments come after a heavy defense production year for Russia and could suggest that the country could see even more energy directed into drone and armored weapon production.
During his remarks, Mr. Putin noted Russia’s impressive 2024 drone production numbers, asserting that the country had manufactured 1.5 drones last year. Russia also receives a significant number of Shahed drones from Iran.
Further increases to Russian defense production come as peace talks are ongoing between Russia, Ukraine and the U.S. The latest round of peace negotiations, set to take place in London, was abruptly postponed on Wednesday following Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s decision not to attend.
