Zelensky Confirms Ukrainian Troop Operations Inside Russia’s Belgorod Region.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has, for the first time, publicly confirmed that Ukrainian forces are conducting military operations within Russia’s Belgorod region, marking a significant development in the ongoing war.
In a video address on Monday, Zelensky stated: “We continue to carry out active operations in the border areas on enemy territory, and that is absolutely just – war must return to where it came from.”
His remarks also included reference to Russia’s neighbouring Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces still maintain a small foothold following last year’s major offensive. Although Moscow has since reclaimed much of the area, the Ukrainian presence remains a strategic concern for Russian defences.
Zelensky explained that the operations are primarily aimed at protecting Ukraine’s own border regions, specifically Sumy and Kharkiv, and at easing Russian pressure on other parts of the front line, especially in the heavily contested Donetsk region in the east.
Last month, Russia’s military accused Ukraine of attempting incursions into Belgorod, but claimed to have repelled the attacks. The contested zones lie just across the border from Ukraine and are within close proximity to conflict-affected areas.
This statement marks the first clear acknowledgement by the Ukrainian president that his troops are actively operating within Russian territory, though there had been indirect confirmation as early as 18 March, when Zelensky said: “There is an operation there,” in response to Russian claims.
Zelensky praised the efforts of Ukrainian troops, particularly the 225th Assault Regiment stationed in Belgorod. “Well done, guys! I’m proud of each and every one who is fighting for Ukraine,” he said, without providing further operational details.
The war, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, continues to evolve in intensity and scope. Moscow currently occupies roughly 20 per cent of Ukrainian territory. Meanwhile, Western leaders have accused the Kremlin of resisting diplomatic efforts, including a ceasefire proposal pushed by US President Donald Trump.
Trump, speaking to reporters late on Monday, voiced frustration over the conflict, stating, “I’m not happy about what’s going on,” and accusing Russia of “bombing like crazy.” His remarks came after a deadly missile strike by Russian forces killed 20 people, including nine children, in Zelensky’s hometown of Kryvyi Rih last Friday.
Despite the ongoing toll, Zelensky reiterated his resolve to defend Ukraine’s sovereignty and praised the military leadership of General Oleksandr Syrskyi, who continues to brief him on developments along the front.
As operations continue along both sides of the border, Ukraine’s strategic push into Russian territory marks a bold statement of intent – to protect its people and bring the conflict back to those who initiated it.
