Zelenskiy claims that Ukrainian forces in Kursk are not surrounded and warns of a new buildup of Russian troops

Ukrainian forces continue to resist Russian and North Korean troops in the Kursk region of Russia, while also preparing for a possible new offensive in Ukraine’s northeastern Sumy region, as stated by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Saturday.

Military experts suggest that Russia is nearing the expulsion of Ukrainian troops from their established positions in the western Russian area, leading U.S. President Donald Trump to caution that thousands of Ukrainian soldiers are “completely surrounded.”

In a social media update following a briefing with his chief general, Zelenskiy clarified that Ukrainian forces are not encircled in Kursk, but noted that Moscow is amassing troops nearby for a potential separate assault. “This suggests an intention to target our Sumy region,” he remarked. “We are aware of this and will respond accordingly.” He emphasized the need for all partners to comprehend Putin’s plans and preparations, as well as what he might disregard.

On Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his conditional support for Trump’s proposal of a 30-day ceasefire with Ukraine, while indicating that hostilities would continue until several key conditions are met.

During a meeting with approximately 25 European leaders and allies on Saturday, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged for increased pressure on Putin to agree to a ceasefire. Zelenskiy added, “The buildup of Russian forces suggests that Moscow intends to continue disregarding diplomatic efforts. It is evident that Russia is extending the conflict.”

In his remarks, he also noted that the situation on the battlefield near the strategically important eastern city of Pokrovsk has “stabilized,” and that Ukraine has successfully deployed a new domestically-produced long-range missile in combat. Kyiv aims to enhance its domestic defense industry to reduce reliance on Western allies who have supplied essential artillery, air defense, and long-range strike capabilities.

Ukraine’s new “long Neptune” missile has a range of 1,000 kilometres (621 miles), Zelenskiy said.