He reported this on Telegram."I spoke with defenders who fought for Ukraine in various directions: Pokrovsk, Vovchansk, and Kupiansk. I presented them with state awards. Thank you for your service and for defending our country. We are proud to have such strong warriors," the president said.Zelenskyy recognized combat medics for their professionalism, support, and daily assistance to soldiers on their path to recovery: "Thank you for your important work here in Kharkiv region. Thank you for your service to Ukraine."Zelenskyy also spoke with fighters defending our country in the Vovchansk direction—the soldiers of the 17th Separate Motorized Infantry Battalion of the 57th Brigade named after Koshovyi Otaman Kost Hordiienko."We talked with commanders about the situation on the front line, the defense of Vovchansk, and the dynamics of the fighting. We separately raised the issues of drone supply and their use, recruitment, and direct funding of brigades. The soldiers in this direction are recording the participation of mercenaries from China, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and African countries in the war. We will respond," the head of state reported. He presented state awards to the defenders. In a video address, Zelenskyy said that in both brigades, they discussed how decisions on direct funding of brigades, particularly for the purchase of drones, are already being implemented. He emphasized the need to expand the units’ ability to purchase pickup trucks and other equipment, as well as to simplify legal and bureaucratic procedures. He noted that the issues of funding and contract service will be discussed at the next meeting of the Staff."We will simplify everything and give more opportunities to our brigades. I have already spoken with the regional and city leadership about additional support for military units in Kharkiv region," the president emphasized.Also in Kharkiv, Zelenskyy held meetings with representatives of communities, educational institutions, and businesses. The head of state announced the preparation of a special support program for border areas, which is being developed jointly with Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko."The goal is to preserve jobs, Ukrainian production, and give a new impetus to the development of communities in the East," he stressed.At the end of his visit, Zelenskyy spoke with local youth, who, according to him, "already clearly know that their choice is an independent Ukraine."Combat medic of the 12th Special Purpose Brigade Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine, Volodymyr Ryzhenko (call sign Sprite), received an award as the best European medic of the year.