On October 2, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky commented on the increase in Russian strikes on Kyiv, stating that the goal of these actions is to force Kyiv residents to leave the capital.
Escalation of Attacks Ahead of US Elections
Zelensky noted that Putin is trying to demonstrate his strength and plunge Ukraine into chaos ahead of the US midterm elections. The president emphasized that this is not the first attempt by Russia to force Ukrainians to leave Kyiv. He recalled that at the beginning of the full-scale invasion in 2022, Russian troops aimed to create conditions under which Kyiv residents would be compelled to abandon the capital.
Objectives of Russian Attacks
According to Zelensky's statements, the ultimate goals of the Russian attacks are:
- To force Ukrainians to leave Kyiv;
- To create the impression that without the capital, there is no Ukraine;
- To demonstrate Russia's strength on the international stage.
The President of Ukraine also warned American negotiators about these intentions, indicating that Putin is trying to exploit the situation for his political purposes.
Predictions for Further Attacks
Zelensky predicts that Putin will continue to escalate attacks on Kyiv during and after the US midterm elections. The president urged the international community to pay attention to these threats and support Ukraine in its fight against aggression.