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Russia has lost around 150,000 troops since the beginning of 2026 while advancing only about 50 kilometers on the battlefield, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in an interview with French broadcaster BFMTV, UATV English reports.
According to Zelenskyy, Russia’s continued large-scale missile and drone attacks are intended to demonstrate that the war is ongoing rather than to achieve decisive military results.
“The massive strikes are merely an attempt to show that the war continues,” he said.
The president also highlighted Ukraine’s growing domestic defense industry, saying the country now independently manufactures drones, armored vehicles, artillery systems and 155 mm guns.
Zelenskyy said Ukraine is also working with eight European countries to develop a new integrated air defense concept, which he described as a “missile defense Lego” system. The project is currently undergoing testing, with deployment planned in 2026 to strengthen the protection of both Ukraine and Europe.
Commenting on prospects for ending the war, Zelenskyy said a ceasefire remains possible but would be extremely difficult to achieve because Russian President Vladimir Putin is still seeking a military victory.
“Achieving a ceasefire is possible, but it will be very difficult because Putin needs a victory,” Zelenskyy said.
