Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed optimism that the ongoing conflict with Russia may reach a resolution sooner than anticipated. During an interview, he stated, “I think that we are closer to peace than we think. We just have to be very strong, very strong.”
Zelensky elaborated on a victory plan he intends to present, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the Ukrainian armed forces with the support of allies. He clarified that his plan does not involve negotiations with Russia but aims to create “a bridge to a diplomatic way out” to end the war.
According to Zelensky, Ukraine’s ability to compel Russian President Vladimir Putin to conclude the conflict hinges on Ukraine’s position of strength. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded cautiously to reports of Ukraine’s strategy, asserting that the conflict would persist until Russia’s objectives are met.
In addition, Zelensky is anticipated to reiterate his appeal for Western nations to lift restrictions on Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles, which could target deep within Russian territory, during his upcoming visit to the U.S. President Biden has yet to make a decision on this matter. Zelensky noted, “Everybody’s looking up to [Biden], and we need this to defend ourselves.”
Zelensky’s agenda includes addressing the UN General Assembly and meeting with key U.S. presidential candidates. The president of the Czech Republic, Petr Pavel, emphasized the need for Ukraine to be “realistic” regarding the potential recovery of territories lost to Russia over the past 31 months of conflict, suggesting that some areas may remain under Russian control for an extended period.
As tensions escalate, Ukraine continues to face relentless attacks from Russia. On Tuesday, a high-rise apartment building in Kharkiv was struck, resulting in at least three fatalities and 15 injuries. In separate incidents, infrastructure was damaged in Poltava, and a strike in Zaporizhzhia claimed one life and injured six.
Russian forces are reportedly making significant advances in eastern Ukraine, particularly in the Donbas region, prompting a military expert to warn that Ukrainians should be “psychologically prepared” for potential territorial losses in critical areas.
