Zelensky Warns Russia Plans New War

KYIV – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia is preparing a new “year of war” against Ukraine in 2026. He made the remarks during his regular evening address on Wednesday. Zelensky’s statement was a reaction to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who said Moscow would “certainly” achieve its military objectives in Ukraine.

Putin earlier said Russia aims to seize Ukrainian territories it claims, using military means if diplomacy fails. He described these objectives as part of a “special military operation,” nearly four years into the conflict. Putin added that Russia prefers to resolve the conflict through talks but is ready for military action if necessary.

The comments come as Ukraine recently reported “progress” on security guarantees after two days of talks with US envoys in Berlin. However, Zelensky noted that disagreements remain over which territories Ukraine might need to cede. Washington’s initial proposal, criticized by Kyiv, would have effectively recognized Crimea, Donetsk, and Lugansk as Russian-controlled regions.

The Kremlin said Russia is waiting for the United States to report the outcome of the Berlin talks. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow expects details from Washington on discussions with Ukraine and European partners. Russia had claimed annexation of Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, Lugansk, and Kherson regions in September 2022, though full military control is not established.

Zelensky will attend an EU summit in Brussels to push for frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine’s defenses. He stressed that Putin’s bellicose statements are not just aimed at Ukraine but also signal attempts to undermine diplomacy. Zelensky urged international partners, including the United States, to respond firmly to Moscow’s aggressive posture.

Read more : Zelensky Rejects Land Concessions in Revised Peace Plan

Ukraine is set to submit a revised peace plan to the White House, as President Volodymyr Zelensky maintains his firm stance against making territorial concessions to Russia. This move comes as diplomatic efforts intensify amidst ongoing Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine has no legal or moral right to cede land to Russia, according to the country’s constitution and international law.

In a recent press briefing, Zelensky reinforced that any change in borders would require public approval through a referendum. The revised peace plan follows failed negotiations between the U.S. and Ukraine over the weekend. Despite U.S. efforts to find common ground, Kyiv rejected an initial U.S.-backed proposal that would have seen Ukraine cede control over the Donbas region and share energy from the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant with Russia.