"Russia had prepared a major offensive operation that they intended to launch at the end of last year and continue this spring. In response, we carried out our own counteroffensive to prevent it,” he said.
Ukrainian forces launched the operation at the end of 2025 and regained control of 444 square kilometers of territory.
“This was a success not only because of the territory, but also because of our people, and because we prevented a large-scale Russian offensive,” Zelenskyy said, adding that the operation was successful in part thanks to Ukrainian drone technology.
The use of FPV drones and other types of unmanned systems has significantly increased Russian losses. According to Zelenskyy, Russian forces have been losing 30,000–35,000 troops killed and wounded each month.
“We prepared for offensive operations, destroyed Russian forces, and killed many Russian soldiers.”