Zelenskyy: Ukraine takes Russian mobilization plans level-headedly, acts, must reinforce military

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine addressed his citizens on Independence Day, stating that Ukraine will no longer allow Russia to seize the initiative and will be prepared for the mobilization plans outlined by the aggressor state. Zelenskyy emphasized that Russia is not seeking peace, but rather mobilization, and that Ukraine must act with a level head and reinforce its military to hold the defense.

He warned that the Russian leadership still views Ukraine from an old perspective, one that would remain silent and endure without resistance. However, Zelenskyy insisted that Ukraine is no longer that country; it is a player and a fighter. He vowed that Ukraine will not allow Russia to take the initiative, deceive Europe and the world, or force the country to give up the Donbas.

Zelenskyy made it clear that Ukraine will not save half a million soldiers for the Kremlin, and that Russia continues to delay the dates for capturing the Donetsk region. The Ukrainian President stressed that Russia has never truly understood Ukrainians and will not have time to do so. He highlighted the consequences of Russia's actions, including the loss of oil refineries, fleet, profits, and an entire generation of Russians sacrificed.

Zelenskyy also noted that Russia's ambition for greatness has been exposed by the harsh reality of its people standing in lines for gasoline. He concluded by stating that Russia has been talking about greatness for twenty-seven years while its country struggles with basic necessities.