Fact Check: "Zelenskyy claims Putin is definitely not winning the war."
What We Know
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently stated that the war with Russia could end sooner than many expect, emphasizing that Ukraine could compel Russian President Vladimir Putin to conclude the conflict if Kyiv is in a "strong position" (BBC). In an interview, he articulated a "victory plan" that includes further military support from Western allies and a commitment to holding Russia accountable for its actions since the full-scale invasion in 2022 (BBC).
Zelenskyy has also indicated that to secure a victory, the U.S. must lift restrictions on the use of its weapons, allowing Ukraine to target military sites within Russia (AP News). This suggests that while he is optimistic about Ukraine's potential to win, he acknowledges significant challenges that remain.
Analysis
Zelenskyy's assertion that Putin is "definitely not winning" the war is nuanced. His comments reflect a mix of optimism and realism. While he believes that Ukraine can push for peace from a position of strength, the ongoing military situation indicates that Russia continues to make territorial gains in eastern Ukraine (BBC). For instance, military experts have warned that Ukrainian forces may need to prepare for potential losses in key areas such as Vuhledar and Toretsk, which suggests that the conflict is far from resolved and that Russia is still actively pursuing its military objectives (BBC).
The sources used in this analysis are credible, with the BBC being a well-respected international news organization known for its thorough reporting. The Associated Press also has a strong reputation for factual news coverage. However, it's important to note that while Zelenskyy's statements are grounded in his perspective as Ukraine's leader, they are inherently optimistic and may not fully reflect the complexities of the battlefield situation.
Conclusion
The claim that "Zelenskyy claims Putin is definitely not winning the war" is Partially True. While Zelenskyy expresses confidence in Ukraine's ability to negotiate from a position of strength and suggests that the war could end sooner than expected, the reality on the ground indicates that Russia continues to make advances. Thus, while Zelenskyy's optimism is valid, it does not negate the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine in the conflict.
