Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his concerns about Russia’s potential escalation of the offensive in northeastern Ukraine in an exclusive interview with AFP. He highlighted the lack of adequate air defenses in Kyiv to hold the front line against Russian forces, who recently made significant territorial gains in the Kharkiv region.
Zelensky emphasized the importance of allies sending air defense systems and fighter jets to combat Russia’s air superiority, stating that Ukraine only has a quarter of the necessary resources to defend the country. He called for 120-130 advanced fighter jets to achieve air parity with Russia.
As Ukraine anticipates a wider Russian offensive, Zelensky acknowledged challenges with staffing and morale within the country’s armed forces. A new mobilization law has been enacted to address staffing issues by lowering the draft age and tightening punishments for draft evasion.
Despite Western allies urging a quick resolution to the conflict, Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to achieving “final victory” over Russia. He reiterated that true peace for Ukraine can only come through Russia’s defeat.