Ukraine warns of Russian attack coinciding with US midterm elections

The timing of Zelenskyy’s warning comes as American voters prepare to determine control of Congress, a decision that could influence future U.S. policy regarding the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, now nearing its fifth year.

In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Zelenskyy urged the Trump administration to intensify pressure on Russia, expressing concern that Moscow might target Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and supply lines during the elections.

“We have intel that Russia is preparing a new massive attack on our country – primarily targeting energy and logistics,” Zelenskyy stated in his nightly address. He added, “The assumption is basically that tomorrow the world will be watching the American midterms, and what is happening here in Ukraine, along with our difficulties with air defense and Patriot missiles, will be overlooked.”

The warning followed a Russian attack on a school in Komyshuvakha, Zaporizhzhia region, southeastern Ukraine, which was being used as a humanitarian aid distribution center. At least 26 people, including police officers and first responders, were killed, with five others injured and others still missing, according to Ukrainska Pravda.

Zelenskyy also called on the United States and its allies to threaten Russia with severe economic repercussions if attacks on Ukraine continue. “We must put pressure on Russia in such a way that it has no alternative but to end this war. America can do this,” he stated.

President Donald Trump has been involved in efforts to negotiate an end to the war, working with special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Zelenskyy recently suggested that Ukraine would halt strikes on Russian oil refineries for a month if the U.S. provided Patriot missile interceptors during that same period.

The State Department has approved a potential sale of 500 Patriot PAC-3 interceptor missiles to Ukraine, valued at approximately $2.1 billion.

Separately, Ukraine accused Russia of exploiting a U.S.-backed humanitarian ceasefire in Oleshky, Kherson region, to reinforce its military positions. Approximately 800 people were evacuated during the six-day pause, facilitated with the assistance of first lady Melania Trump. Ukraine’s General Staff alleges that Russian forces used the ceasefire to rotate troops and improve logistics.