Zelensky Warns Russia Preparing New Massive Attack on Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russia is preparing another large-scale attack on Ukraine, citing intelligence received by Kyiv as the two countries continue to exchange missile and drone strikes.

Zelenskyy made the statement after meeting British Prime Minister Andy Burnham on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. He said Ukraine remains in close contact with its international partners over strengthening the country's air-defence capabilities.

“There is intelligence right now that Russia is preparing a new massive attack against Ukraine,” Zelenskyy said in a post on Telegram, according to Reuters.

Ukraine Seeks More Air Defence Support

The warning comes as Russian forces have changed their aerial attack tactics in recent weeks. Instead of concentrating strikes primarily overnight, Russian forces have increasingly launched drones and missiles throughout the day.

Reuters reported that Russia has also expanded its use of jet-powered drones, which can fly at higher altitudes and move faster than earlier versions. Ukrainian officials say the new systems are creating additional challenges for the country's air-defence units.

Ukraine is seeking additional air-defence systems and has been discussing support with its allies. Zelenskyy has also been seeking US-made Patriot missile interceptors, which are particularly important for defending against ballistic missiles.

Warning Comes Amid Diplomatic Efforts

Zelenskyy's warning comes at a time when diplomatic efforts to reduce the fighting are also continuing.

During his visit to New York, Zelenskyy met US President Donald Trump to discuss possible steps toward ending the war, including a proposed ceasefire covering attacks on energy infrastructure. Zelenskyy has said Ukraine would be prepared to stop strikes against Russian energy facilities if Moscow also stopped attacks on Ukraine's energy system.

However, attacks have continued despite recent discussions about an energy truce. Ukraine has carried out strikes against Russian oil and fuel infrastructure, while Russia has continued missile and drone attacks across Ukraine.

Russia Intensifies Drone Campaign

The latest warning also follows an increase in Russia's use of jet-powered attack drones. Reuters reported that Russia launched more than 2,100 such drones and 136 missiles against Ukraine during the first three weeks of September, according to figures cited by Ukrainian Prime Minister Sergii Koretskyi. Ukrainian officials said the attacks killed 288 people during that period.

Kyiv has also intensified attacks on Russian energy and military-related infrastructure. The escalation has added pressure on both sides even as diplomatic discussions continue.

With Ukraine expecting further Russian attacks, Zelenskyy's latest warning places additional emphasis on the need for air-defence support while negotiations over a possible limited ceasefire remain underway.