Putin hints at Ukraine sanitary zone amid escalating border attacks
Russian President Vladimir Putin has hinted at the possibility of expanding military operations in Ukraine to safeguard Russian territory on the border. This comes as Ukrainian forces report progress in their counteroffensive against Russian troops. Putin shared his perspective on the conflict during an open meeting with military journalists and bloggers, revealing that Ukraine has allegedly lost 160 tanks and over 360 armoured vehicles in recent days.
Putin expressed concern about the increasing attacks on Russia’s border areas, which the Kremlin attributes to Ukrainian forces. He suggested that if Kyiv continues its incursions and shelling of Russian territory, Moscow may have to consider creating a “sanitary zone” in Ukraine to prevent further attacks.
The Russian president also discussed the possibility of mobilising additional troops for the conflict, stating that there is currently no need for such action. However, he added that any further troop call-ups would depend on Russia’s objectives in Ukraine.
Despite the ongoing conflict, Putin does not see the need to declare martial law in Russia. He also mentioned that Russia’s goals in Ukraine could change depending on the situation and military potential.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the progress of his country’s troops in the counteroffensive, particularly near the city of Bakhmut in the east and on the southern front. He thanked the soldiers for their efforts in liberating territory from “Russian evil.”
Putin acknowledged that Russia’s weaponry has improved but admitted that the country lacks high-precision ammunition and drones. He also accused the West of supplying arms to Ukraine, which he believes is the only way to stop the conflict.
In other developments, Russia is contemplating withdrawing from the Black Sea grain deal, which has allowed Ukrainian grain to reach the global market. Putin claimed that Moscow had been cheated in the implementation of the agreement and accused Kyiv of using sea corridors intended for safe grain transport to launch maritime drones.
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