Ukrainian military forces successfully prevented a large-scale offensive operation by the Russian Federation, which the aggressor planned to initiate at the end of 2025 and continue into spring 2026. This was reported by the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, in an interview with CNN.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Ukrainian Counteroffensive Actions and the Role of Technology
According to the head of state, thanks to the decisive actions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, it was possible not only to halt the enemy’s advance but also to prevent the deployment of a large-scale Russian offensive. Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that this result was achieved not only through territorial control but also by preserving the lives of Ukrainians and effectively utilizing modern drone technologies.
“Russia prepared a large offensive operation that they wanted to start at the end of last year and continue this spring. In response, we conducted our own counteroffensive actions to prevent a large-scale Russian offensive. This success was not only due to territory but also because of our people, and because we prevented a large-scale Russian offensive. All of this was largely made possible by our drone technologies.”
The president also expressed concern that the conflict in the Middle East could distract the international community from the ongoing war against Russia, which has lasted for over four years. Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine does not want the United States to lose interest in supporting our state due to the escalation in the Middle East.
Changes in International Support Due to Events in the Middle East
In March 2026, the Financial Times reported that attempts by the U.S. to facilitate a peaceful resolution to the war between Ukraine and Russia have so far yielded no results. According to diplomatic sources, U.S. President Donald Trump is losing interest in the negotiation process, with the main reason cited being the joint U.S. and Israeli war against Iran, which is diverting Washington’s attention from the Ukrainian issue.
European diplomats noted that last week American officials informed their partners in the European Union that the U.S. does not plan to intensify sanctions against the Russian oil industry. It is worth recalling that on February 28, the U.S. and Israel launched a large-scale military operation against Iran, during which the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was eliminated, and strikes were carried out on the country’s strategic military and nuclear facilities. In response, Iran began shelling Israeli territory and attacked U.S. military bases and facilities of U.S. allies in the Persian Gulf countries.