Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that since the beginning of the year, Ukrainian Defense Forces have reclaimed 460 square kilometers of territory. He asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin has “lost” his winter offensive and is now planning to mobilize an additional 400,000 soldiers.
This statement was made during an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera on March 3. Zelensky emphasized that while Russia has targeted Ukrainian power stations during the winter months to undermine civilian morale and pressure the military, these efforts have failed.
“With the warmth, hopes are revived. Now the Russians will attempt spring offensives, but I believe they will lose again—many soldiers will die in vain,” the president stated.
Zelensky indicated that Russia is experiencing monthly losses of up to 35,000 soldiers. Despite Putin’s plans to recruit 400,000 new troops, he noted that the Russian military has not been able to grow, as losses are matching the number of new recruits.
“They are immobilized, close to crisis. Serious negotiations will begin when their army starts to shrink,” Zelensky remarked.
However, the president also acknowledged that Ukraine faces its own shortage of soldiers. “That is why we want to end the war,” he added.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported significant territorial gains for Ukraine while highlighting Russia's ongoing military challenges. He noted both countries face troop shortages, emphasizing the need for a resolution to the conflict.