Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently disclosed that Ukraine’s military had the capability to capture the Kursk nuclear power plant in Russia but opted against it, distancing themselves from what he described as "Russian tactics."
In an interview with Northern European media, Zelenskyy emphasized that targeting energy facilities or nuclear sites has never been a goal for Ukraine, despite rumors to the contrary.
Avoiding Russian Tactics, Upholding Ethical Warfare
“Russia believes it is very strong,” Zelenskyy said, referencing Moscow's approach to nuclear threats.
“If we had wanted to capture their nuclear plant, we could have. But we didn’t, because we understand that it would mean becoming like Russia.”
Zelenskyy dismissed rumors that Ukraine was interested in seizing Russian infrastructure, asserting that any such move would contradict their commitment to ethical warfare.
The operation in the Kursk region, he explained, was conducted to prevent Russia from establishing a buffer zone in northern and eastern Ukraine—a move publicly announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine’s forces advanced into Kursk to disrupt Russian plans for a protective zone and force redeployment of Russian troops away from Kharkiv and other eastern regions.
Buffer Zones and Western Support
Zelenskyy noted that this strategic push underscored Ukraine’s need for long-range weaponry, a request that has met some hesitation among allies.
As a result of Ukraine’s advancement, Russia was compelled to move forces away from contested areas in the east.
Yet, Zelenskyy highlighted the overwhelming disparity in force numbers, citing a ratio of one Ukrainian soldier to every eight Russians in the eastern front.
He acknowledged that some Western leaders feel Ukraine’s repeated requests for long-range capabilities exert pressure, though he stressed this support is critical to Ukraine’s success.
“We’re presenting a victory plan, but some still say we are asking for too much,” he stated.
In a closing statement, Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine’s military restraint at Kursk underscores their goal of maintaining ethical standards, even under extreme circumstances.
“If we had wanted to capture their nuclear station, we could have done it,” he reiterated, “but we never desired this.”
