Zelenskyy: Russia Plans Multiple Offensives to Pressure Ukraine From a Position of Strength

On March 18, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the media, stating that Russian leader Vladimir Putin is planning to launch several offensives in the Zaporizhzhia, Eastern, Kharkiv, and Sumy directions. According to Zelenskyy, the purpose of these offensives is to apply maximum pressure on Ukraine, ultimately forcing it into negotiations from a position of strength.

Zelenskyy expressed hope for a forthcoming call with US President Donald Trump, during which they would discuss the situation further.

“I expect that we will have a conversation with President Trump, and we will discuss the details. We have always supported the position of not targeting energy infrastructure with any weapons,” Zelenskyy stated.

When asked what key message Ukraine would deliver to President Trump after Russia effectively rejected the 30-day ceasefire, Zelenskyy explained, “I would like President Trump to hear and understand what Putin wants. Putin aims to launch several offensive actions in the Zaporizhzhia, eastern, Kharkiv, and Sumy directions. Why? To put maximum pressure on Ukraine and then make demands from a position of strength.”

Earlier, Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin held a phone conversation regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. They emphasized the urgent need to end the war, with discussions focused on a ceasefire and diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions.