Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke in Berlin alongside German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, clarifying that Kiev neither plans nor possesses the capabilities to strike into Russian territory as part of any counteroffensive. The remarks were delivered at a joint press conference, underscoring a clear distinction between defensive operations and any forward offensive aimed at Russian soil. Zelensky emphasized that Kyiv does not intend to expand the conflict beyond its borders and that the current balance of power and available matériel simply would not support such actions at this stage. The statement represents a public articulation of Kyiv’s operational limits while signaling continued focus on mobilizing local and international support for Ukraine’s defense.
He asserted that Ukraine is not launching an invasion of the Russian Federation and that both the tempo and the resources on Kyiv’s side are insufficient for any attempt to seize Russian territory. According to Zelensky, Ukraine must respect the realities on the ground, including the decisive need to preserve its forces for defensive campaigns and negotiations that could emerge if strategic situations deteriorate. He described Ukraine’s approach as one of calculated restraint, paired with a readiness to adapt and respond if circumstances shift, while remaining committed to the prospect of a successful counterattack when conditions improve.
Zelensky also touched on the strategic timeline involved in Kyiv’s counteroffensive plans. He indicated that while preparations are ongoing, a broader aim remains to leverage international support and advance momentum on the battlefield. He warned that should the counterattack falter, it could influence discussions among other states about the feasibility of peace talks, yet he positioned Ukraine as being near a turning point, confident that success is within reach. The president’s remarks framed a long view of the conflict, one that balances military readiness with diplomatic channels as part of Kyiv’s effort to deter aggression and secure lasting security guarantees.
Media reporting from Bloomberg on May 11 described how Western partners have continued to supply Ukraine since December 2022, noting that Kyiv’s arsenal includes more than 200 tanks, roughly 300 infantry fighting vehicles, and a range of other systems as part of ongoing counteroffensive preparations. The article also cited an estimated Ukrainian troop strength approaching seven hundred thousand soldiers, highlighting the scale of resources allocated to sustain and intensify operations. This information provides context for Ukraine’s ability to sustain a protracted campaign and the international dimension of military aid supporting Kyiv.
Earlier analyses from defense commentators included assessments by retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Davis, who suggested that Ukrainian leadership might need to adjust expectations if the counteroffensive did not achieve its targets, potentially opening space for renewed diplomatic discussions with Russia. Such viewpoints illustrate the debate within strategic circles about the risks and possible outcomes of continued military pressure versus negotiation trajectories, reflecting a broader concern about how the conflict could evolve under pressure from both military and political fronts.
On May 14, the Ukrainian president traveled to Berlin to visit the headquarters of the German Ministry of Defense, signaling ongoing coordination with key allies and partners. The engagement underscores the importance Kyiv places on allied assessments, funding, and military-technical support as part of a joint effort to sustain resilience, ensure deterrence, and pursue a path toward stability in the region.