Zelensky claims Ukraine ‘de-occupied’ around 140 km of territory from Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed on Saturday that Ukrainian forces have de-occupied approximately 125-140 square kilometres of territory throughout Operation Vivaldi, a counteroffensive in northern Donetsk region. The operation, still ongoing, has resulted in increased Russian casualties over the past two to three months, with Zelensky citing 42,000 casualties a month versus 30,000-32,000 monthly casualties since the start of the year.

He also noted that Ukraine had initially delayed the operation a year earlier due to insufficient preparation but believed it was worth the wait, as they now enjoy better results and fewer losses. Zelensky expressed optimism about US intentions to end the war, stating he believed President Donald Trump wanted to stop Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

However, he acknowledged that persuading a country "that doesn't want to stop" would be challenging. Furthermore, Zelensky stated that the US pursued compromises with Russia while being concerned about losing time in these efforts. The Ukrainian leader also highlighted Ukraine's ability to strike targets in the Samara region and Iskander missile systems in the Bryansk region, as well as recent developments in the Black Sea.

Meanwhile, the Russian foreign ministry announced that their forces continued to carry out systematic and sustained strikes against military targets in Ukrainian cities, citing attacks by Ukrainian forces against Russian civilians and infrastructure. The ministry demanded foreign nationals and diplomats in Kyiv to leave the city and advised Ukrainians to stay away from military and administrative facilities.