Zelensky Predicts: Putin Aiming to Expand Occupation and Avoid Ending Ukraine War
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has emphasized that Russian leader Vladimir Putin likely intends to pursue aggressive actions beyond Ukraine’s borders, aiming to seize new territories without necessarily ending the ongoing conflict on Ukrainian soil.
According to Zelensky, recent events, including attempts by Russia to invade several European countries’ airspaces, serve as confirmation of this trend.
He pointed out that Moscow seeks to demonstrate its military strength without pausing its territorial advances, sending a signal not only to Ukraine but also to NATO allies.
In an interview with Fox News, Zelensky stated that Putin is trying to create a situation allowing him to continue the war, regardless of Ukraine’s position.
This strategy involves pushing into new territories, as Putin perceives he needs to showcase power to sustain his military industry and close circle of businessmen involved in the military sector.
Western and Ukrainian sources suggest that Putin intends to pursue multiple fronts simultaneously, without signs of retreat or peace negotiations.
Zelensky also highlighted that this approach explains why Russia refuses to engage in peace talks with Kyiv — fear of outcomes from such meetings.
Furthermore, Zelensky accused Putin of trying to test NATO’s defenses, particularly by exploiting perceived weaknesses such as insufficient air defense and low combat readiness among alliance members.
He remarked that Russia’s military leadership is aware of NATO’s flaws and uses them to expand its influence.
Zelensky criticized the United States for not applying enough pressure on Moscow, aiming instead to preserve diplomatic options for negotiations.
Nonetheless, he stressed that Putin’s intentions remain to prolong the war and demonstrate strength to the global community.