Zelensky Warns of Possible Russian Offensive Toward Chernihiv and Kyiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that Russia may be preparing a new offensive against northern Ukraine, potentially targeting the Chernihiv region and the capital, Kyiv. Zelensky stated that intelligence indicates Russia is considering offensive operations from the Belarus-Bryansk region border area. In response, Ukraine has ordered its defensive forces in the north to be strengthened and is taking preventive measures.

The warning comes amid heightened tensions along the Belarusian border. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, speaking during joint nuclear exercises with Russia observed via video conference, dismissed the notion that Belarus would be drawn into the war. He stated Belarus would only enter the conflict if aggression was committed against its territory, affirming a joint defense commitment with Russia. Lukashenko also offered to meet Zelensky anywhere in Ukraine or Belarus to discuss bilateral relations.

Kyiv has dismissed the meeting proposal. An advisor to Zelensky said that since 2022, it has been obvious that Lukashenko's words mean nothing and that attention should be paid to his actions. Zelensky has instructed Ukraine's foreign ministry...