Ukrainian President's Statement on Russia's Actions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russia is gearing up for a wider mobilization and has no intention of pursuing peace this autumn, according to intelligence briefings. The remarks highlight the ongoing threat and the need for sustained Western support. Based on Ukrainian intelligence data, Russia has added 221,000 personnel to its armed forces in under seven months this year. Over the same period, Russian losses approached 225,500, including 131,000 killed and roughly 93,000 wounded.
"We have detailed intelligence reports on Russia's autumn plans. What is not in those plans? Peace. Unfortunately, not yet. Putin is laying the groundwork to expand mobilization. The casualty figures speak for themselves." Volodymyr Zelenskyy
During a discussion about the situation in Donetsk region with Ukraine's Commander-in-Chief Mykhailo Drapatyi, the president announced a planned meeting with Drapatyi and acting Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara. He emphasized the importance of applying pressure on Russia, stating: "It is crucial that we and our partners apply enough pressure on Russia so that thoughts of ending this aggression prevail—thoughts of peace, not of further Russian mobilization."
Zelenskyy also reported new strikes on Russian oil facilities in Tyumen, located 2,000 km away. Updated FP FirePoint drones were used for these attacks. The president thanked the military, intelligence agencies, and the Security Service of Ukraine for their precision. Daily reports from Sumy region indicate strikes on agricultural enterprises. Ukraine's Foreign Ministry is set to brief international partners on the consequences of Russia's terror tactics targeting ports and the agricultural sector.
Russia's Ambitions and Global Implications
Meanwhile, Russia plans to receive 30,000 troops from North Korea, with preparations underway since June in the Voronezh region. Pyongyang is also set to supply new ballistic missile launchers to Russia. According to the president, this poses a threat beyond Ukraine: "Russia is teaching North Korea how to wage war, upgrading their weapons, and giving them real combat experience."
Furthermore, since early July, Ukraine has observed Russia actively conducting satellite surveillance over Gulf countries and U.S. military installations. The imagery is later shared with Iran. Specifically, Russian satellites have targeted four airbases: two in Bahrain, one in Jordan, and one in Kuwait. Zelenskyy remarked, "Evil always looks for ways to make things worse and spread."
These developments highlight the escalating conflict between Ukraine and Russia and the growing international dimensions of the war. Russia's mobilization plans and its deepening military ties with North Korea pose a threat not only to Ukraine but to global security. Ukraine continues to defend its interests and is rallying international support against the aggression. Given these circumstances, it is vital that the global community remains committed to supporting Ukraine during this difficult period.
As the situation escalates, President Zelenskyy has indicated that the war's critical phase is shifting to the skies, underscoring the increasing importance of aerial engagements in the conflict. For a deeper understanding of how this shift impacts military strategies and the broader implications for the war, read more about the current phase of the conflict.