Zelensky says 'fierce battles' in Donetsk, no choice but 'to defend and win', urges sanctions against Russian nuclear industry

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday that the fierce battles in the Donetsk region were ongoing, adding the situation was "very difficult."

"Russia is intensifying the pressure on various fronts and in terms of information in the run-up to the first anniversary of the war," he added.

Zelensky was speaking in a video message where he addressed the people of Ukraine and provided information on the latest developments about the ongoing war in his country.

Noting that Russian forces are attempting to increase attacks on the front lines, Zelenskiy said, "We have no choice but to defend and win."

Ukraine sanctioned Russia's nuclear industry

Noting that they decided to impose sanctions on Russia's nuclear industry, Zelensky said that the NSDC (Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council) decision on sanctions against Russia's nuclear industry has entered into force.

He also accused the Russian army of carrying out attacks against nuclear infrastructures in Ukraine and emphasized that their main goal is to impose global sanctions on Russia's nuclear industry.

Arguing that Russia uses its nuclear issue to threaten the sovereignty and security of other states, Zelensky said, "All these are reasons enough for Russia's nuclear industry to be under global sanctions. We are working on this with our partners."