Zelenskyy: Frontline Situation and Long-Range Strikes Are Creating “Very Toxic Atmosphere” for Putin

Vladimir Putin chairs a Security Council meeting via videoconference at the Kremlin. Photo: ap.org

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says the current situation on the front lines, combined with Ukraine’s long-range strikes and mounting sanctions pressure, is generating a new and highly toxic atmosphere surrounding Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin.

Zelenskyy made the remarks in an evening address on Telegram, according to UATV English.

“Right now, of course, the situation on the front lines, our long-range sanctions, and our mid-range strikes are creating a new atmosphere around Putin—a very toxic atmosphere. He alone is the reason the war began and continues. Putin alone is responsible for the losses the Russians are suffering,” Zelenskyy said.

He noted that people within Putin’s inner circle understand his responsibility for the war and are signaling this both to Ukraine and to international partners. Zelenskyy added that this awareness is increasingly taking hold within Russian society as well.

“Decisions are needed to bring about peace. Ukraine has long been ready for this; we are now doing everything to ensure that this war ends with dignity. I thank every one of our soldiers and every unit for their precision. I thank all our weapons designers and manufacturers. I thank all our people for their resilience and faith in Ukraine,” Zelenskyy concluded.

As previously reported, Zelenskyy held talks with representatives of US President Donald Trump — Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner — during which the sides discussed ways to intensify diplomatic efforts toward achieving peace.

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