Zelenskyy confident in Ukraine's victory, announces counteroffensive

(Patria) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed confidence in his country's ability to repel the Russian invasion, saying Ukraine is preparing for a counteroffensive. Zelenskyy, in an interview with Al Arabiya aired on Sunday, touched on a range of issues as his country battles in the second year of conflict against Russia.

When asked about the situation on the ground in Ukraine, Zelenskyy acknowledged it was challenging but stressed that his country is fighting and getting stronger. "I cannot describe the situation as good, but we are fighting," he said.

"We are stronger than a year ago," he specified.

Zelenskyy also emphasized that Ukrainians are united for victory.

"We hope and believe that through daily (successes) we are close to victory," Zelenskyy said, adding that Ukrainians are committed to reclaiming occupied parts of the country and developing the nation.

Zelenskyy said the Ukrainian army is preparing for a counteroffensive against Russian forces, while downplaying the impact of leaked US documents on this counteroffensive. Although he did not provide details about the attack, he expressed confidence in its success. "Our army is preparing, and we are doing everything to strengthen it," he said.

Zelenskyy also spoke about the situation in the city of Bakhmut, where a fierce battle is underway against the Russian mercenary group Wagner. Although some analysts say the city has little strategic value, Zelenskyy stood by his position that Ukraine will not give up the city in eastern Ukraine. He urged them to "visit (the city) to understand what could happen and what the threats are."

"It is impossible for us to give up Bakhmut because it will (help) expand the front and give Russian forces and Wagner a chance to occupy even more of our country," he said. If Russia captures Bakhmut, it could serve as a springboard for advances on two larger cities in eastern Ukraine: Kramatorsk and Sloviansk.

Zelenskyy thanked allies for their support, but noted that they are also supporting themselves by helping Ukraine.

"The truth is that Russia will not stop at Ukraine, and that is clear to everyone," he said, adding that Ukraine can stop Russia.

"So, to our allies, support us because this is, above all, a cheap price to pay because Russia will go further than that," he said, adding that Russian President Vladimir Putin is fighting for his life in Ukraine, not for his country.