Zelenskyy: Russia Restricts Social Media to Prevent Unrest Amidst Offensive Preparations

In a stark warning that resonates deeply within Ukraine and across NATO, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has articulated a chilling assessment of Russia's strategic intentions, suggesting a calculated plan to suppress internal dissent while preparing for further aggression.

Zelenskyy posits that Russia's tightening grip on social media is not merely about information control, but a deliberate measure to preemptively quell potential public unrest. This unrest, he believes, could be triggered by a large-scale mobilization for a renewed offensive against Ukraine or, more alarmingly, an expansionist move towards the Baltic states. This strategic foresight highlights Ukraine's understanding of Russia's internal dynamics and its external ambitions, a perspective often missed in more detached international analyses.

“

In my opinion, there is a deeper reason - preventing riots. What could cause riots in our northern neighbor? Several things, several scenarios. The first is a large-scale general mobilization in Russia. Mobilization of people from large cities, including Moscow and St. Petersburg, of course. Why would such a large mobilization be carried out? To launch another offensive - a large offensive against Ukraine. Option B: launching a smaller parallel offensive, with lower costs and less effort, in a place where one can pass with fewer combat forces. Why? Because some states – for example, one of the Baltic states – are not ready for strong resistance.

The Ukrainian leader further emphasizes that Russia is closely monitoring the cohesion and readiness of NATO. Zelenskyy's analysis suggests that the Kremlin's decision on where to direct its next major thrust—be it a full-scale assault on Ukraine or a more limited, yet destabilizing, offensive against a Baltic nation—will hinge on NATO's perceived willingness to defend its members. This underscores Ukraine's view that NATO's unity is not just a matter of collective defense, but a critical deterrent against further Russian expansionism.

From the perspective of Večernji List, a prominent Croatian news outlet, Zelenskyy's words carry significant weight. We understand the gravity of his warnings, given our own proximity to regional instability and our historical awareness of the consequences of appeasement. His assertion that NATO countries "will have to unite and respond" or risk obsolescence is a powerful call to action. This is not just about Ukraine's survival; it's about the fundamental principle of collective security in Europe. The narrative here is one of vigilance and the urgent need for a unified front against a clear and present danger, a perspective shaped by our own experiences and understanding of geopolitical realities.

“

I think that perhaps not all countries will want to support [the Baltic states], but in my opinion, NATO countries will have no choice – otherwise, there will be no NATO anymore. They will have to unite and respond to what Putin can eventually do. Otherwise, they simply won't have an alliance anymore.