Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has canceled trips outside Ukraine as Russia launches a significant military onslaught in northern Kharkiv.
Sergii Nykyforov, Zelensky’s press secretary, stated in a Facebook post that Ukraine “gave instructions to postpone all international events for his participation, scheduled for the coming days, and work out new dates.”
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Zelensky had planned to visit Spain and Portugal later this week, but Ukraine is under intense pressure as Russian soldiers assault the Kharkiv region.
The offensive, which began last Friday, saw Russian forces arrive from the neighboring Belgorod area. Russia has since overrun many settlements, forcing thousands of civilians to evacuate.
A crucial struggle is also happening in Vovchansk, where Russian soldiers have invaded the northern portion of the town, which is located north of Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city.
While Russia does not appear to have the forces to capture the city, Moscow might jeopardize supply lines and surround the city, straining Ukrainian troops as they fend off strikes on the eastern front.
Any significant success for the Kremlin would eventually threaten the capital of Kyiv for the first time since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.
Zelensky recently spoke with his top commanders and receives regular briefings from Ukraine’s military leader, Col. Gen. Oleksandyr Syrskyi.
Throughout the battle, the Ukrainian leader prioritized international trips to build up support. He planned to meet with King Felipe in Spain and sign a bilateral security deal.
