The operation is expected to give Ukraine the victory it needs to join NATO.

Kuleba stated that membership of the military alliance would probably only be possible for Ukraine after the end of active hostilities.

Ukraine has received weapons from its Western allies, including tanks, armored cars, and artillery.

Ukraine's deputy defense minister said that the country is shifting to offensive operations on certain fronts, but denied claims of a major Ukrainian assault.

Kuleba did not confirm whether the counter-offensive has started.

The most important thing is that it ends in Ukrainian victory, he said.

NATO membership is the next big target on Ukraine's agenda.

Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister, Kuleba, has stated that efforts to increase energy efficiency must be stepped up.

He also commented on Saudi Arabia's oil production cut, saying that it was influenced by broader factors, but any move that would help Russia make more money was still "unwelcome." When asked about recent raids into the Russian border region of Belgorod conducted by anti-Kremlin Russian volunteer militias, Kuleba cast the violence as an internal Russian matter and said it was none of his business.

He also stated that his ministry had not received any formal complaints regarding the events in Belgorod.