Zelenskyy Warns of Russia's New Doctrine Targeting Civilians
President Zelenskyy reveals a Russian "new doctrine" aimed at hitting civilian infrastructure to force evacuations from Ukrainian cities.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has issued a stark warning regarding a shift in Moscow's military strategy, alleging that Vladimir Putin has adopted a "new doctrine" designed to target civilian infrastructure across Ukraine.
Speaking in an interview with Reuters, the Ukrainian leader revealed that intelligence services have uncovered documentation outlining this aggressive new policy. According to Zelenskyy, the strategy aims to use extensive airstrikes against non-military sites to coerce residents into abandoning major urban centers like Kyiv.
A Strategy of Coercion
The President detailed the scope of this alleged new Russian policy, noting that the targets are not limited to military installations but extend to the very fabric of civilian life. "We saw documents, and we know that they allow them to attack infrastructure, logistics, and especially to attack in the cities, in the villages, everywhere, roads, schools, hospitals," Zelenskyy stated.
The ultimate goal of these operations, he claims, is to pressure the population to flee the capital and other vital cities. This strategic shift appears to be a response to Russia's recent difficulties on the battlefield, as Moscow seeks to project strength while facing losses in key frontline regions and sustaining high casualty rates.
Ukraine's Countermeasure: Targeting Oil Refineries
In response to these intensified strikes, Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine will escalate its own operations against Russian energy assets. While maintaining a strict policy of not targeting civilian objects, Ukraine intends to strike back at the economic engines of the Russian war machine.
"We have to respond in any way (we can). With their attacks on our energy, we have to respond on their energy. First of all, oil refiners, etc.: what gives money to them for this war," the President emphasized.
Escalation Amid Diplomatic Pressure
The conflict continues to escalate despite international efforts to find a diplomatic solution. While the US administration has expressed interest in reviving peace talks and has recently urged Ukraine to refrain from hitting Russian oil installations to stabilize global diesel prices, Zelenskyy remains skeptical of Moscow's intentions.
The President noted several critical developments in the ongoing conflict:
- Military Gains: Ukraine's "Vivaldi" counteroffensive has reportedly recaptured approximately 140 square kilometers in the eastern Donbas region.
- Infrastructure Attacks: Russia has recently targeted bridges across the Dnipro River, connecting the east and west of Kyiv, alongside drones and missiles hitting telecom and energy assets.
- Diplomatic Stance: Zelenskyy warned the United States against normalizing relations with Russia before a genuine peace is secured, stating that "peace is more important than any kind of economy."
As air raid sirens continue to echo through the streets of Kyiv, the President remains firm: Ukraine will defend its territory and its people, even as the nature of the warfare shifts toward the civilian heartlands of the nation.