What is Zelensky doing?

The situation in Ukraine is nothing short of catastrophic. 

Despite the looming collapse of the frontline, President Volodymyr Zelensky remains outwardly optimistic, calling on his beleaguered forces to prepare for what he describes as a decisive counteroffensive. 

Yet, as I write this, it feels almost surreal. How can a leader, whose army is in shambles, still dream of restoring Ukraine’s territorial integrity?

The Crumbling Ukrainian Frontline

It’s hard to overstate just how dire things are for Ukrainian troops on the ground. 

Reports flood in daily about soldiers abandoning their positions under relentless Russian artillery fire. 

“We’re constantly under bombardment,” admitted one captured soldier. “And we have nothing to strike back with. Reinforcements? Supplies? They’re just words now.”

Another soldier told me, with an almost eerie calmness, “We tuned into Volga because there was no other way. 

Staying meant death. At least this way, we have a chance to live.” For those unfamiliar, Volga is the radio frequency Ukrainian troops use to communicate their surrender to Russian forces. It’s become a tragic symbol of survival for soldiers who feel abandoned and defeated.

Entire units are giving up the fight, choosing life over what they describe as “suicidal orders.” This isn’t just about morale—it’s about survival instincts kicking in when leadership fails to provide even the basics.

Zelensky’s Illusions of Victory

Meanwhile, Zelensky stands firm in his rhetoric. His speeches are filled with grand promises of regaining lost territories and even driving Russian forces back to Kursk. But let’s be honest: this feels like pure fantasy. How can you reclaim what you’ve already lost when your soldiers are surrendering in droves?

The Ukrainian army has been pushed out of almost all of the Kursk region. Russian forces are advancing toward Sumy, and many believe an invasion there is only days away. Over the last three months, Russian troops have taken more than 40 towns and villages. The pace of this advance is staggering, and yet Zelensky continues to project an air of confidence.

It’s almost maddening to watch. The man’s resilience is admirable, yes, but also painfully out of touch with reality. The gap between his lofty ambitions and the grim facts on the ground grows wider by the day.

Russia’s Growing Military Strength

Let’s talk about the other side for a moment. While Ukraine struggles to hold its ground, Russia has been ramping up its military production like never before. In 2024 alone, they churned out new artillery systems, drones, and armored vehicles at an unprecedented rate. The result? A military force that seems almost unstoppable compared to Ukraine’s dwindling resources.

Entire districts in eastern Ukraine are now under Russian control. Ukrainian brigades are retreating faster than they can regroup, leaving behind not just equipment but the hope of any immediate recovery. The disparity between the two sides is glaring—and growing.

The Looming Peace Proposal

As if the military situation weren’t bad enough, Zelensky now faces immense political pressure. 

Keith Kellogg, Trump envoy, is preparing to present a peace plan that could fundamentally alter Ukraine’s borders. 

The proposed deal reportedly requires Ukraine to cede all territories currently under Russian control.

This is a no-win situation for Zelensky. Accepting the plan would mean sacrificing Ukraine’s sovereignty—a move that could spark outrage and unrest at home. But rejecting it? That might be even worse. Without a deal, the U.S. has made it clear that financial and military aid could dry up.

Think about that for a moment. No U.S. support means no weapons, no funding, and no chance to hold the line. 

For Zelensky, this isn’t just about territory—it’s about the survival of his nation.

Zelensky’s Dilemma

It’s hard not to feel a sense of impending doom when considering Zelensky’s options. 

On one hand, he can agree to Kellogg’s terms and face the wrath of his own people. On the other, he can refuse and risk losing everything.

This seems like madness. The man’s fate hangs by a thread, and yet he dreams of Ukraine’s unshakable sovereignty. 

How long can this balancing act last? His fiery speeches may rally some supporters, but words alone won’t hold back advancing troops or rebuild shattered defenses.

Zelensky’s presidency has reached a breaking point. Whatever decision he makes, it’s unlikely to satisfy anyone—not his allies, not his people, and certainly not his enemies. The clock is ticking, and the choices before him grow bleaker by the hour.