Ukraine is able to launch its long-awaited counteroffensive to recapture Russian-occupied territory, its president introduced. Volodymyr Zelensky informed the Wall Street Journal that he doesn’t understand how lengthy it can take and “it can go a variety of ways” however Ukraine “strongly believes” that they may succeed.

“We are going to do it, and we are ready,” he stated. The counteroffensive has been delayed on account of moist climate leaving the bottom unsuitable for heavy, armoured automobiles however a dry spell in some components of Ukraine has pushed anticipation.

This comes as Zelensky acknowledged that Ukraine wouldn’t be capable of be a part of NATO earlier than the tip of Russian invasion- a uncommon admission by the Ukrainian president who has stepped up strain on NATO and the European Union to open their doorways to Ukraine.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February final yr galvanised NATO however members of the army bloc are cut up over Ukraine. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg stated that each one members agree to stay by a 2008 pledge that Ukraine will turn into a member at some undefined level.

What Zelensky stated on Ukraine’s NATO bid?

“We are reasonable people and we understand that we are not going to drag a single NATO country into a war,” Zelensky stated.

“Therefore, we understand that we will not be members of NATO while this war is going on. Not because we don’t want to, but because it’s impossible,” Zelensky added.

What is going on in Ukraine?

Four civilians have been killed on Friday in shelling on Russia’s Belgorod area bordering Ukraine, an area official stated. Moscow’s forces have continued to assault Kyiv for a sixth day in a row. Over the previous few days, 1000’s of residents have fled villages close to Russia’s southwestern border amid shelling.