President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke about Russia’s plans to reinforce its troop groupings, offensive intentions in the Donbas. As well as Ukraine’s readiness for a ceasefire and the development of international military cooperation.
He made the remarks during a meeting with journalists.
Ukraine proposes “mirror” Easter ceasefire
Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine remains ready for symmetrical steps on a ceasefire. Kyiv proposed a pause in hostilities during the Easter holidays and expects a corresponding response from Russia.
He said such a step could open the way to real progress toward peace if Moscow refrains from strikes after the holidays as well.
Russia builds up forces despite heavy losses
According to the president, Russia’s monthly battlefield losses roughly match its mobilization rates. However, the overall size of Russian forces in Ukraine continues to grow.
This indicates that Russia draws additional troops from its strategic reserves. Zelenskyy warned that such actions carry risks for Russia itself, as they weaken its defenses in other directions.
Russia sets unrealistic goals in the Donbas
Zelenskyy said Russian command aims to capture several cities by the end of April, including Druzhkivka, Kostiantynivka, and Pokrovsk.
He called these plans unrealistic, citing assessments from partners, including British intelligence. Zelenskyy added that Russia has set similar deadlines before.
Ukraine supports Middle Eastern countries in air defense
Zelenskyy said Ukraine has deployed military experts to countries in the Middle East. These specialists focus on interceptor drones and electronic warfare and help partners strengthen their air defense systems.
He noted that Ukrainian experts not only provided consultations but also participated in intercepting Iranian drones in several countries.
Ukraine has also demonstrated the ability to shoot down jet-powered drones and now works on scaling up production of such interceptors.
New security agreements and resource exchange
Ukraine is negotiating long-term cooperation agreements with several countries, including Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
These ten-year agreements would involve Ukrainian companies working with local militaries to protect critical infrastructure.
In return, Ukraine receives support ranging from interceptor systems for energy protection to financial resources, as well as supplies of oil and diesel. Zelenskyy said such cooperation significantly strengthens the country’s energy resilience.
Russia may prepare for escalation or endgame
Zelenskyy suggested that possible restrictions on social media in Russia could indicate preparations for major decisions – either further escalation and mobilization or attempts to end the war.
He noted that Russian society remains divided: some support the war, while others may react negatively to both its continuation and its end. The Kremlin’s next steps should become clearer soon.
Context
In March 2026, Russian forces failed to achieve territorial gains in Ukraine for the first time in more than two and a half years, according to Agence France-Presse, citing data from the Institute for the Study of War.
Earlier, The Ukrainian Review reported that Russia is considering creating a buffer zone in Vinnytsia Oblast from the side of Transnistria.
