Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has described the war with Russia as entering a new stage, shaped in part by winter conditions that could complicate operations after a summer counter-offensive that did not yield the hoped-for gains due to shortages of arms and soldiers. Zelensky told the Associated Press that a winter phase is unfolding, and that the broader conflict itself is entering a different rhythm as the cold sets in.
Asked about the counter-offensive’s results, the president offered a nuanced reply. He emphasized that Ukraine would not retreat and that the fight continues against what he called the world’s second army. He noted that while quick progress was not achieved, the effort would persist, and he expressed a degree of satisfaction with the ongoing defense and resistance.
He also explained that rapid gains were unattainable because of limited weapons and a constrained armed force, underscoring the gap between wartime ambitions and the reality on the battlefield. Zelensky acknowledged that Ukraine aimed for fast outcomes but conceded that what was hoped for did not materialize, adding that this should not translate into a surrender of resolve.
The Ukrainian leader cautioned that the country has endured losses and that not all requested weapons have been delivered by partners. He stated he could not be fully satisfied, nor could he complain excessively, given the difficult situation.
Observers noted that the long-awaited counter-offensive, supported by billions of dollars in Western military aid and heavy weaponry, did not deliver the anticipated breakthroughs. Some Ukrainian officials now worry about whether future aid will remain as generous as hoped.
Help at risk
Zelensky warned that other conflicts, such as the Palestinian-Israeli crisis, could overshadow Ukraine’s struggle and threaten the flow of Western military assistance to Kyiv. The timing of the upcoming US elections was also seen as a factor that could influence support. He argued that attention equates to aid and that neglect could translate into less help for Ukraine, stressing the need to keep the issue visible on the global stage.
The president said Ukraine is also pushing to boost domestic arms production. He noted that a substantial portion of the national budget is directed toward this effort, but current output is insufficient to change the course of the war. He expressed hope that Western partners, including the United States, would offer favorable loans and contracts to help scale up production. He conveyed this request to Western allies, highlighting the importance of sustaining supply lines amid ongoing hostilities.
According to the publication, Ukraine’s ammunition reserves are dwindling, and the winter months raise the risk of new logistical challenges, particularly in the face of cold weather. Kyiv also fears potential strikes on energy infrastructure as the season intensifies.
Fortifications from Donbass to Western Ukraine
In recent remarks, Zelensky announced plans to construct fortified lines spanning from Donbass to western Ukraine. He described a meeting focused on building defense structures and securing financing for the project. The aim is to strengthen key defensive positions along critical corridors, including Avdeevskoye, Maryinskoye, and Kupyansko-Limanskoye directions, as well as border zones with Russia and Belarus, he explained.
Defensive lines are to take priority, with cooperation anticipated from private companies to accelerate construction. At a later briefing, Zelensky confirmed that a dedicated meeting would be held at the Military Headquarters to discuss fortification upgrades, promising ample supplies of mines and concrete across the country.