Muscat: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy claimed Friday that some members of Russian President Vladimir Putin's inner circle support ending the war, asserting they recognize that 'peace has no alternative.'

According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy made these remarks during his evening briefing, where he highlighted that Russia is grappling with a gasoline 'crisis' as a direct consequence of Moscow's refusal to cease hostilities. He emphasized that proposals for peace have garnered backing not just globally but also from individuals within Putin's entourage who comprehend the situation's gravity and the necessity of peace.

Zelenskyy further reported that Ukrainian long-range strikes have successfully targeted multiple regions inside Russia and Russian-controlled areas of Ukraine. He pledged to enhance Kyiv's strike capabilities and announced the formation of a special command within the Armed Forces, focused on exerting long-range influence on Russia throughout the conflict.

The newly established command aims to concentrate all available resources to significantly diminish Russia's war potential. As of now, Russia has not responded to Zelenskyy's claims, and independent verification remains challenging due to the ongoing war.