Zelenskyy believes that Russian offensive in eastern Ukraine will be the last - Politico
Photo: President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Getty Images)
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, believes that the current Russian offensive in the East could be the last major military operation by Russia. Next year, it may already be possible to talk about peace, Politico reports.
The outlet, citing its own sources, writes that Zelenskyy expressed this view during a closed-door meeting with deputies from the Sluha Narodu (Servant of the People) party. Zelenskyy suggested that the Russian offensive in the East, which is currently intensifying, could be Russia’s last major ground attack in the war.
Ukraine will have to endure a harsh winter, as Russian attacks on the energy sector are increasing. However, Zelenskyy told the deputies that he expects a real possibility of reaching a ceasefire, although it will not be easy.
Why Zelenskyy is confident
Significantly greater economic and military pressure must be applied to Russia to force it toward peace. Russian President Vladimir Putin needs to understand that negotiations are the only logical outcome, as continuing the war will drain Russia without granting any major advantages.
The outlet writes that US President Donald Trump is eager to end the war in Ukraine, aiming for a Nobel Peace Prize next year. Ukraine plans to leverage this: a high-level Ukrainian delegation is negotiating in Washington on assistance for energy infrastructure recovery and on pressuring Russia toward peace.
President Zelenskyy himself will visit Washington on October 17, where he will hold a personal meeting with Trump. For this reason, the media outlet adds, Ukrainians believe the situation could now shift in their favor.
Zelenskyy–Trump meeting: Details
As reported, President Zelenskyy will meet with Trump in Washington on October 17, this Friday. It is noted that the presidents primarily want to discuss long-range weapons, strengthening Ukraine’s air defense in the context of Russian attacks on the energy sector, sanctions against Russia, and several other issues.
Among other things, according to the media, Trump will discuss with Zelenskyy Ukraine’s transition to an offensive on the front lines. Despite pressure from Russian occupiers, Ukraine still plans to advance, as Trump himself stated.
