Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed concerns that Russia could escalate its offensive in the northeastern Kharkiv region. He stated that Russian forces had made some gains but were confronted by Ukrainian troops. Zelensky stressed the need for international support, particularly air defense systems and fighter jets, as Ukraine faces a significant deficiency in this area. Despite Russia’s territorial acquisitions, Zelensky remained steadfast in Ukraine’s long-term strategy and urged Western allies to adopt a more assertive stance against Russia.