Ukraine war: Zelensky says Putin has started World War III and must be stopped

President Volodymyr Zelensky told the BBC he believes Vladimir Putin has started World War III and urged intensified military and economic pressure; overnight strikes on Odesa region hit energy infrastructure, causing fires and at least one death.

President Volodymyr Zelensky told the BBC he believes Vladimir Putin has started World War III and called for stronger military and economic pressure on Russia. He made the comments ahead of the war's four-year anniversary and amid ongoing trilateral discussions about a possible ceasefire. Russia has pressed for Ukraine to cede key territory while Ukraine seeks robust security guarantees. Overnight strikes struck energy infrastructure in the southern Odesa region, causing fires and casualties. Known facts: - Zelensky said he believes Putin has already started World War III and stated that Putin "must be stopped." - Trilateral talks to secure a ceasefire are ongoing, with disagreement over territory and security guarantees. - Emergency services reported strikes on energy infrastructure in Odesa region, fires, one person killed and multiple people rescued. - Ukraine's Air Force reported the attack involved many drones and missiles and said a large number were intercepted or neutralized. Summary: Zelensky's remarks frame the conflict as having broader global implications and add pressure to diplomatic talks. The strikes in Odesa show continued military escalation on the ground. Undetermined at this time.