Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that Russia is preparing for a “big war” in Europe as soon as 2029, urging Ukraine’s allies to intensify sanctions and arms supplies to reduce Moscow’s capabilities.
In a post on X, the Ukrainian president said: “Given the situation on the battlefield, we don’t see Russia wanting to stop. … They want a big war, they are preparing to be able to start such a big war in 2029 or 2030 – in this period – on the European continent.”
Zelensky called for the international community to deny Russia revenue from energy and to avoid supplying weapons that could bolster its military. His comments come as the EU explores new funding mechanisms for Ukraine, including seizing frozen Russian assets or raising capital from member states.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Vladimir Putin “thinks he can outlast us” but described this as “a clear miscalculation”. She urged a new push to bring Russia to the negotiating table.
Meanwhile, the Kremlin said Ukraine would eventually have to negotiate, claiming Kyiv’s position was worsening daily. Moscow has accused Ukraine of refusing peace talks, while Kyiv rejects demands to cede occupied territory as tantamount to surrender.
US-led peace efforts remain stalled after President Donald Trump cancelled a prospective summit with Putin, though diplomatic contacts continue. Trump has backed an immediate ceasefire with forces at their current positions.
