Ukrainian President: "Russia advancing toward capital Kyiv... It will be a difficult night"

Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on the 25th (local time) that Russian troops are advancing toward the capital Kyiv from northern and eastern Ukraine, adding, "Tonight will be really difficult, and the Russian military will mobilize all available forces to break through Ukraine's defense lines."

According to CNN and other outlets, President Zelensky made these remarks in a video address on the same day. He said, "The fate of Ukraine is being decided," and added, "We are fighting for our country on all fronts in the south, east, north, and many cities of our beautiful country."

He continued, "Our main goal is to stop this massacre," expressing sorrow that "hundreds of soldiers lost their lives today at the border and within our territory." He also emphasized, "Unfortunately, we are suffering losses," and stated, "Ukrainians are bravely resisting Russia's attack, which is unjustifiable, and therefore this occupying force must be condemned."

President Zelensky said he has spoken with numerous world leaders who promised more help and support against Russian airstrikes. Earlier, he held phone calls with U.S. President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and others to discuss the Russian airstrike situation.

On the second day since Russia invaded Ukraine, Russia is surrounding Kyiv and increasing pressure. Ukraine has declared a nationwide mobilization order, converting civilians and critical infrastructure to a wartime footing to resist Russia's occupation attempts.

On the outskirts of the capital Kyiv, Russian tanks, infantry, and airborne troops are preparing to infiltrate. In the city, clashes presumed to be with infiltrated Russian sabotage agents and explosions from Russian missile airstrikes were also heard.

As Russian forces prepare a full-scale offensive while pressuring Ukrainian troops to surrender, the U.S. White House assessed that the fall of Kyiv is highly likely.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.