Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russia is preparing a new spring offensive, with the regions of Sumy and Kharkiv likely to be the main targets.
In an interview with French newspaper Le Figaro, Zelenskyy said that Russia is building up its forces for a major attack. He added that Ukraine is closely monitoring the situation and has already shared intelligence with its international allies.
“I can confirm that Putin is trying to buy time and is planning a spring offensive. We’re seeing evidence of these preparations. Intelligence has already been shared with our partners. We must remain vigilant—this new offensive appears focused on the Sumy and Kharkiv regions,” Zelenskyy said.
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He explained that Russia originally planned this offensive about eight months ago, but Ukraine’s Kursk operation disrupted those plans.
Since then, Russia has been regrouping and increasing pressure along the frontlines.
In a related report, military analyst Michael Clarke told Sky News on March 26 that Russia has broken 190 international agreements over the years, adding further concern over its military ambitions.
Zelenskyy also confirmed that a 30-day ceasefire in the Black Sea, along with a mutual agreement to stop attacks on energy infrastructure, went into effect on March 25. This deal was reached following negotiations between Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia, hosted in Saudi Arabia.
According to a statement from the Kremlin, Russia agreed to the Black Sea ceasefire on the condition that sanctions be lifted on the Russian Agricultural Bank and local producers of food and fertilizers.
