Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed on Saturday that Ukrainian forces are engaged in a counteroffensive and defensive actions against Russian forces. Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv alongside Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Zelenskyy responded to Russian President Vladimir Putin‘s remarks about counteroffensive of Ukraine, stating that their top commanders are in a “positive” mindset despite the intense fighting along the front line.
While Zelenskyy did not disclose the specific stage or phase of the counteroffensive, the Ukrainian leader’s remarks, coupled with reports of fiercer fighting and the deployment of reserve troops, indicate that a full-blown counteroffensive is underway. Western analysts have also suggested the same. Zelenskyy emphasized his regular communication with commanders in various directions and expressed their unwavering resolve.
Zelenskyy: Ukrainian Forces Launch Defensive Actions Against Russian Aggression
He mentioned the names of five top military leaders, highlighting their positive outlook in the face of the conflict. Zelenskyy requested that Trudeau pass on this message to Putin. Trudeau, who became the first foreign leader to visit Ukraine following devastating floods caused by a breached dam on the Dnieper River, expressed Canada’s unwavering support. He pledged an additional 500 million Canadian dollars ($375 million) in military aid, adding to the 8 billion Canadian dollars ($6 billion) already provided since the war began in February 2022.
Trudeau also announced 10 million Canadian dollars ($7.5 million) for humanitarian assistance in response to the flood. Trudeau attributed the dam’s collapse to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, although he refrained from directly blaming Moscow. Ukraine’s General Staff confirmed heavy battles and 34 clashes in the country’s industrial east over the previous day. While specific details were not provided, the statement mentioned that Russian forces were defending themselves and launching air and artillery strikes in Ukraine’s southern Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions.
The situation remains tense as both sides continue to engage in intense fighting. The international community closely watches these developments, expressing concern over the escalating conflict and offering support to Ukraine in its efforts to defend its territorial integrity.