Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Moscow hopes to "break" Ukrainian resistance during the winter, relying on heating problems and the possibility of diminished Western support for Kyiv due to rising energy prices in Europe. Key statements from Zelensky during the European Strategy Yalta Forum held in Kyiv include:
- "Russia is making every effort to break the resistance of Ukraine, Europe, and the world during the ninety days of winter."
- "Moscow is counting on the brutality of winter, as 'the brutality of man is no longer enough,' " referring to the backdrop of Ukrainian forces regaining significant territories in the east of the country.
- "Russia may target companies and infrastructure that provide heating in Ukraine with its strikes," urging the West to supply Kyiv with more air defense systems.
- "Russia may completely cut off its gas supplies to Europe to force Western capitals to seek a settlement with Moscow."
- "We must prepare our companies. The winter will be harsh for all of us, from Latvia and Poland to Britain and the United States. We must get through this winter."
- The West must maintain its unity in facing Russia," warning of a decline in support for his country in the ongoing war.
- "Support for Ukraine in its fight must continue. We need tangible things: weapons, missiles, and financial and political support."
- "Do not expect us to say 'enough.' There will be no 'enough' until we win," warning against Western attempts to "push Ukraine to make concessions to Moscow. We cannot allow ourselves to stop. This is my main message to some leaders who are pushing us into the arms of Russia."
According to the Ukrainian government, Western aid covers 40 percent of Kyiv's military budget. According to a Ukrainian news site, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the resumption of peace negotiations with Moscow with Zelensky on Thursday in Kyiv, which the Ukrainian authorities strongly reject.
