In Kramatorsk, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a meeting with the Donetsk oblast head Vadym Filashkyn and Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi, commander of the “Luhansk” operational tactical group. This was reported by the Office of the President on November 18.
“Mykhailo Drapatyi reported on the situation at key frontlines, the use of various types of tactical drones, and electronic warfare systems. The president also received updates on the construction of fortifications and mine barriers to bolster the region's defense. According to the head of the Donetsk oblast administration, besides military engineering units, workers from various parts of Ukraine and 'Ukrzaliznytsia' are involved in these efforts”, - the statement reads.
It was noted that Zelensky visited the Pokrovsk direction to observe the fortification efforts, where most of the planned 600 structures have already been completed. The president spoke with the builders and thanked them for their work.
Separately, Vadym Filashkyn briefed on the socio-economic situation in the region, as well as the evacuation of children from certain areas. He mentioned that around 324,000 people currently reside in the Ukrainian-controlled parts of the Donetsk oblast. Since the start of the mandatory evacuation, over 318,000 people have been relocated, including 37,000 children.
Additionally, the meeting addressed the progress of the heating season. About 86% of the planned heating plants are operational, ensuring warmth in most apartment buildings, healthcare, and educational facilities. However, it remains impossible to start the heating season for apartment buildings in the Pokrovsk municipal territorial community.