Zelenskyy: "If Ukraine is engulfed in flames, so will Moscow"

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russia could face retaliation if its attacks on Ukraine continue, saying that “if Ukraine is engulfed in flames, so will Moscow”.

Speaking to journalists during a visit to the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, Zelenskyy linked the comments to what he described as Russian strikes on religious and civilian sites, including the historic monastery complex in Kyiv, Suspilne News writes.

“We will prepare a response, and you will see it,” he said, adding that Ukraine does not seek war but would respond to continued aggression.

The comments come as fighting between Russia and Ukraine intensifies, with Kyiv continuing to call for stronger international pressure on Moscow. Zelenskyy urged allies to expand sanctions, target Russia’s so-called shadow fleet, and step up strikes on energy and defence infrastructure.

He also confirmed that discussions at the latest Ramstein-format defence meeting would focus on expanded arms procurement for Ukraine under the PURL initiative, as well as additional air defence systems and Patriot missile supplies. According to him, the programme is now backed by 9–11 partner countries.

Zelenskyy further outlined early steps towards developing a joint European anti-ballistic defence system, suggesting closer cooperation with Germany in exchanging technical expertise.

By Aghakazim Guliyev