Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed recent comments made by Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Pavlo Palisa regarding Russia’s intentions to establish a buffer zone in the Vinnytsia region, near the unrecognized Transnistria. Zelensky expressed that he does not perceive any immediate threat from this situation.
During a meeting with journalists, Zelensky stated, “The Russians want to create a buffer zone along the entire border—not just their own, but also Belarus’s. This includes the Chernihiv and Sumy regions. There is nothing new in this.” Regarding Transnistria, he added, “Honestly, I do not see any threat there at the moment.”
He emphasized that the real danger lies where Russian military forces are concentrated. “Currently, we observe troop buildups in other directions—specifically in the South and the Zaporizhzhia region. Their main objective remains unchanged—the Pokrovsk direction. This city is crucial for them, as they have long sought to capture it. It is also vital for us, as it represents our defensive line and boundaries,” Zelensky noted.
Earlier, Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Pavlo Palisa had indicated that while Russia aims to create a buffer zone in the Vinnytsia area from the direction of Transnistria, they currently lack the military capability to do so.
President Zelensky has downplayed concerns regarding Russia's alleged plans for a buffer zone in Vinnytsia, asserting that the real threat lies where Russian troops are concentrated. He highlighted the importance of the Pokrovsk direction for both sides in the ongoing conflict.