Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova delivered a strongly worded statement on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, criticizing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Western nations for fueling hostilities. Speaking on multiple issues, Zakharova accused Kyiv of staging military actions for political gain, condemned alleged attacks by Ukrainian forces, and warned against Western plans to seize Russian assets. She also reiterated Moscow’s stance that any deployment of foreign troops in Ukraine would be considered an unacceptable provocation. Addressing regional and global tensions, Zakharova highlighted concerns over Japan–U.S. military exercises near Russian borders and restated Russia’s commitment to defending its sovereignty while keeping the door open for pragmatic dialogue with Washington.