Ukraine is engaged in talks with its allies to negotiate the supply of long-range missiles and fighter jets amid an ongoing battle for control of the country’s border with Russia.

On Monday, an aide to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the country was in talks with its allies to acquire 24 jets and missiles.

The Associated Press reported that the talks are part of a ‘fast-track’ initiative to increase Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

The move comes amid increased tensions between Ukraine and Russia over the control of the Donbas region, a strategic area on the border between the two countries.

Russia has blamed Kyiv for a fatal missile strike on a hospital in the region, while Ukraine has accused Moscow of escalating the conflict.

The talks come as France 24 English reported that the battle for control of the Donbas region has been raging for months, with both sides exchanging artillery fire and airstrikes.

Ukraine has also been in talks with the United States and other allies about increasing its military presence in the region.

The country’s defense minister has said Ukraine is ready to receive “all necessary assistance” from its allies in order to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The talks come amid increased international pressure on Russia to end its military involvement in Ukraine.