Zelenskiy warns Russia faces challenges in achieving military goals in Ukraine

Monday 02 March 2026 - 22:10

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy warned on Monday that Russia is unlikely to achieve the military advances it had planned, despite ongoing ambitions in eastern and southern Ukraine.

Speaking in Kyiv during a press briefing on the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion, Zelenskiy outlined Moscow’s continued focus on seizing the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. He added that Russian forces also aim to advance toward the southeastern city of Dnipro and the southern Odesa region along the Black Sea.

According to Zelenskiy, Ukrainian intelligence has obtained maps detailing Russia's 2026–2027 plans. However, he emphasized that these plans "have nothing in common with reality," as Russia lacks the capability to carry out the operations effectively.

"We understand their intentions," Zelenskiy said. "They aim to occupy the east of our country, particularly Donetsk and Luhansk. They also want to move toward Zaporizhzhia and Dnipro, and although difficult, they are looking at the Odesa region."

The Ukrainian president noted that the actual outcome will depend on Kyiv's access to international weapon supplies and the country’s domestic defense production. Ukraine remains vigilant and continues to strengthen its defensive measures across targeted regions.