Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has revealed in an interview with NBC News that Ukraine plans to indefinitely hold Russian territories it seized in a surprise incursion last month. Zelenskyy stated that this move is part of his “victory plan” to end the war with Russia and force President Vladimir Putin to the negotiating table. He emphasized that Ukraine does not want to bring its way of life to these territories, but they are crucial for the current strategy.
Ukraine’s incursion into Russian territory has resulted in the control of nearly 500 square miles and the capture of hundreds of Russian prisoners of war. The operation, known as the Kursk operation, was kept as a closely guarded secret even from Ukraine’s allies, including the United States. Zelenskyy mentioned that the Biden administration was not aware of the operation, and that it was done in secrecy to avoid giving Russia time to prepare.
Zelenskyy did not disclose whether Ukraine plans to seize more Russian territory, stating that the success of the operation relies on maintaining an element of surprise. This approach contrasts with the unsuccessful counteroffensive last summer, which was widely publicized and allowed Russia to prepare. The situation is still evolving, and further updates are expected.
Reported by Richard Engel and Gabe Joselow from Kyiv, and Yuliya Talmazan from London, the interview sheds light on Ukraine’s strategic approach towards ending the conflict with Russia. Zelenskyy’s decision to hold and control the seized territories reflects Ukraine’s efforts to bring a resolution to the ongoing war.
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