Zelensky asserts control amid Zaporizhzhia offensive threat

- Ukraine is aware of the threats related to a possible Russian offensive in the Zaporizhzhia sector, but it is in control of the situation - said President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday. Earlier, media reported that Russia is preparing a major attack there.

After a meeting with General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Zelensky emphasised that the heaviest fighting is currently taking place in the Kurakhove sector of the Donetsk region. In the part of the Kursk region occupied by Ukraine, defence positions are being maintained with the goal of maximising the weakening of Russian capabilities in the border area.

The British weekly "Economist" previously reported that Ukrainian intelligence anticipates a possible Russian attack on Zaporizhzhia. According to Kyiv, Moscow may involve up to 130,000 troops in the offensive. Zaporizhzhia, the main city of the Zaporizhzhia region, is located 30 kilometres from the front line and is crucial for the Ukrainian economy.

Before Russia's invasion, over 700,000 people lived in Zaporizhzhia. Currently, Ukrainians are strengthening the city's defences by building fortifications, minefields, and structures made of concrete and iron.

At the end of 2022, Vladimir Putin announced the annexation of the entire Zaporizhzhia region, although only one-third of this region remains under Russian control. Zaporizhzhia is one of Ukraine's three main industrial centres, making it strategically important for the country.