Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky: “We broke Russia’s plan, we will win”

He lives. Russia invades Ukraine: fierce fighting and explosions across the country

We have successfully withstood the enemy’s attacks. The conflict continues in countless cities and regions of the country, but it is our army that controls Kiev and some major cities around the capital,” Zelensky said.

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian president called on Western countries to be more resilient towards Russia. He also called on Germany and Hungary again to “have the courage to exclude Russia from the international banking system SWIFT”.

At the same time, he encourages the Russian people to demand that the Kremlin end the war immediately. “We know that many in Russia were simply shocked by the brutality and insignificance of the government,” Zelensky said.

Nearly 4,000 dead since the invasion began

At least 198 Ukrainians have been killed since Russia invaded neighboring Ukraine, according to Ukraine’s Interfax news agency. The ministry said that among the dead were three children. In addition, 1,115 people were infected, including 33 children. It is not known whether the number of casualties relates only to civilian casualties or whether military personnel are also included in the figures.

On the Russian side – according to the Ukrainian armed forces – 3,500 soldiers have been killed since the start of the invasion. Another 200 were captured and 14 aircraft, 8 helicopters and 102 tanks were destroyed, in addition to more than 530 other military vehicles.

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(pjv, mtm)