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In southern Ukraine, the Defense Forces of Ukraine have managed to regain control of between 400 and 435 kilometers of territory, thereby disrupting the enemy’s plans for a spring offensive in that direction, UATV English reports.
This was stated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a joint briefing with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Rob Jetten, in Kyiv.
“In the south of our country, over the past month and a half, the Armed Forces have carried out a number of important defensive actions and, in some directions, offensive operations. These actions were taken solely to disrupt Russia’s plans. We believe they were quite successful – we regained control of approximately 400–435 kilometers,” Zelenskyy said.
He noted that the situation in this direction remains difficult.
“But I will say this very cautiously: overall, everyone feels more positive than they did at the end of 2025,” the President said, adding that the actions of Ukrainian troops had disrupted the enemy’s plans in the area.
Zelenskyy also added that the aggressor’s main objective for the spring offensive remains eastern Ukraine.
“The main goals are the east of our country – capture of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. In principle, their plans have not changed. There is simply a delay because they are unable to accomplish this with the resources and forces they currently have, and because of the actions of our Armed Forces,” the head of state said.
Today, security concerns extend beyond the Middle East to Europe as well, and Ukraine is ready to help strengthen the continent’s defense, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said during a joint briefing with Prime Minister of the Netherlands Rob Jetten in Kyiv.
“Ukraine has already begun contributing to stabilization efforts. As you all know, countries in the region and the United States have turned to Ukraine for support, and we will provide them with the necessary assistance – primarily expertise and the experience of our military in defending against Shahed drones, cruise missiles, and similar threats. However, it is important that this example – the United States and the countries of the Persian Gulf turning to Ukraine – becomes an incentive for Europe and our other partners to implement what is needed for collective security on our continent. Just as in the Middle East, Europe also needs stronger defense,” Zelenskyy said.
He noted that the Middle East already has many different air defense systems, including Patriot missile system batteries, but even that proved insufficient during modern attacks.
“Ukraine has the expertise and the experience. In fact, all countries recognize that this is currently the most extensive experience. We also have relevant production capabilities, and we must share this experience with our close friends and partners in Europe,” the President said.
As reported, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy considers strikes on military targets in Iran, which supplies weapons to Russia, to be justified. However, the operation in the Middle East could affect Ukraine’s ability to receive missiles and air defense systems.
The head of state also said that Ukraine is ready to help countries in the Middle East stabilize the situation and protect civilians in response to the threat posed by Iranian strike drones and missiles that destabilize the region and the global market.
As reported, on March 6, while visiting the Donetsk region, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russian forces have not abandoned their war aims and are preparing a spring offensive in the region.
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