Russian leaders have been watching and waiting for Ukrainian forces to launch a major attack. Now, even though President Vladimir Putin has seen the counteroffensive become a reality, he says the efforts have been thwarted.

Putin made the remarks on Friday in Sochi, Russia. He said, "All the counteroffensive attempts made so far have failed. Even so, the troops of the Kyiv regime still have some offensive potential."

Putin's remarks echo the view of other analysts. He has also been pushing ahead with a plan that Western leaders have criticized.

Putin spoke with one of his closest allies, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. He confirmed that tactical nuclear weapons from Russia will be deployed in Belarus as early as next month.

Both Russians and Ukrainians are trading blame over the destruction of the Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River. Residents are beginning to feel the full impact of the disaster. Ukrainian officials say 5 people have died and 13 are missing.

On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that they are facing "enormous" challenges.

Zelenskyy said, "I am sure, no matter how difficult it may be, we will overcome the consequences of this disaster and all Russian evil."

Zelenskyy also said he spoke on the phone with Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio. Kishida told him he wants to host a conference on rebuilding Ukraine early next year.