In a recent interview with Agence France-Presse, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine’s Defense Forces have successfully regained control of 300 square kilometers on the southern front. This development comes as Ukraine approaches the anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion.

Zelenskyy highlighted that these territorial gains were achieved through strategic counteroffensive and assault operations. However, he did not specify the exact timeframe for these advances. He praised the Ukrainian army and all Defense Forces for their efforts, emphasizing the significance of this achievement.

Addressing claims about Ukraine’s position in the ongoing conflict, Zelenskyy firmly rejected the notion that Ukraine is losing the war. He stated, “It cannot be said that we are losing the war. Honestly, we are definitely not losing it, definitely. The question is whether we will win?” He acknowledged the complexity of this question, describing it as “a very expensive question.”

The president also touched upon diplomatic discussions regarding territorial concessions, mentioning that both American and Russian parties have suggested that the war could end if Ukraine relinquishes Donbas. Zelenskyy linked recent battlefield developments to disruptions in satellite communications used by Russian forces, noting that Ukrainian troops capitalized on the loss of access to Starlink terminals on the Russian side. Despite acknowledging similar interruptions for Ukrainian units, he described Russian setbacks as “much more serious.”

SpaceX has implemented stricter controls over Starlink usage in Ukraine, requiring terminals to be registered and authorized for full operation. Meanwhile, Russia has officially banned the use and registration of Starlink equipment within its territory. Zelenskyy did not disclose specific operational details about the areas retaken within the reported 300 square kilometers, but his comments coincide with ongoing fighting in the southern sector, particularly in the Zaporizhzhia region, where Ukrainian forces have launched counterattacks against Russian positions.

In the same interview, Zelenskyy discussed future security arrangements, including the potential deployment of European forces in Ukraine should a ceasefire occur. Kyiv is advocating for their presence closer to the frontline, with Zelenskyy stating, “We would like to see the contingent closer to the line of contact. Of course, no one wants to stand on the first line, and of course Ukrainians would like our partners to stand with us on the frontline.”

Additionally, reports from Defense Express indicate that Russia has begun testing its “Barrazh-1” stratospheric balloon as an alternative communications relay following tighter Starlink restrictions in occupied territories. However, prevailing winds over Ukraine are likely to push the platform back toward Russia, limiting its practical use.

Pour en savoir plus united24media.com