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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia is preparing new strikes on Ukraine, an additional wave of mobilization, and a broader expansion of the war as autumn approaches, warning that Ukraine faces either a new escalation this winter or a move toward negotiations with Moscow, UATV English reports.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin, Zelenskyy said the two discussed the threats and challenges Ukraine faces heading into the coming season.
“We are talking about the threats and challenges that exist right now, ahead of autumn, when Putin is preparing new strikes on Ukraine, additional mobilization in Russia, and an expansion of the war,” Zelenskyy said.
The Ukrainian president welcomed the European Union’s adoption of its 21st sanctions package against Russia, thanking every European leader who made it possible.
“Today Micheál assured me that he will work on the 22nd package,” Zelenskyy said.
He also noted progress on Ukraine’s EU accession process during Ireland’s presidency of the Council of the European Union, saying two negotiation clusters have already been opened.
“It is very important that Ireland shows leadership as the presiding country, and Ukraine can count on the opening of the remaining clusters,” he said.
On the battlefield and economic front, Zelenskyy said the most pressing issues right now are logistics, grain, agriculture, and energy, warning that Russia will intensify attacks on Ukrainian ports in an effort to block the country’s grain corridor. He stressed that Ukraine’s new infrastructure minister must strengthen regional “resilience plans” ahead of winter.
Zelenskyy also announced an upcoming visit to the United States to discuss ending the war.
Thanking Ireland and Ukraine’s partners across Europe, the Americas, and the world for their tangible support, Zelenskyy singled out Ireland’s new package of assistance as especially meaningful.
“Thank you to all the Irish people for not being indifferent,” Zelenskyy said.
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