Ukraine has called for increased pressure on Russia over its occupation of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, while Moscow has accused Western nations of trying to intentionally drag out the conflict.

On Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy denounced Russia, saying it is using the nuclear plant as a shield for its attacks.

Zelenskyy touched on a joint statement issued by 42 countries, including EU nations, the United States and Japan. It demands the immediate withdrawal of Russian forces from the plant.

Zelenskyy urged the countries to impose more sanctions against Russia.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin referred to NATO member states' weapons supply to Ukraine on Tuesday in a video address to an international security conference held in suburban Moscow.

He asserted that the countries need conflicts to maintain their supremacy, and that the United States wants to drag out the fighting in Ukraine.

Observers say Putin was likely attempting to seek public understanding for the lengthy battles involving his forces in Ukraine.

In southern Ukraine, Ukrainian forces continue counterattacks. In the east, the governor of the Luhansk said on Monday Ukrainian forces have attacked the base of a private Russian military company in the region.

Russia claimed in July that it has taken full control of the Luhansk region.

The Institute for the Study of War, a US think tank, said in its latest assessment on Monday that some Russian soldiers in the Luhansk region reportedly refused to continue fighting in the neighboring Donetsk region.

The institute said the trend has serious implications for Russian forces seeking to recruit more new soldiers from the Luhansk region.