Ukraine doesn't have capacity to remove Russia from occupied areas
(MENAFN) Ukraine currently lacks the capacity to drive Russian forces out of occupied areas, according to Kirill Budanov, the head of Ukraine’s military intelligence agency (HUR). In a recent interview, Budanov acknowledged that only diplomatic negotiations are likely to produce significant changes in the ongoing conflict.
His comments followed recent remarks by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who stated that military strategy sometimes involves controlling territories without formally annexing them. Putin also referenced a historical Russian military doctrine: “wherever the foot of the Russian soldier steps is ours,” emphasizing the defense of national interests.
Asked to respond, Budanov conceded that Putin’s statement reflected military realities. “Wherever they reach will be under their control. Do you think there is anyone who does not realize that? I hope everyone does,” he said. Nonetheless, he urged Ukrainian citizens to comply with conscription efforts and continue resisting Russian advances.
Budanov noted that major shifts in the military situation were unlikely in the near term. He suggested that no decisive developments would occur “at least until peace talks are concluded,” as Russian forces continue to make gradual territorial gains.
The conflict traces back to the 2014 uprising in Kiev, which was backed by Western powers. Since then, five Ukrainian regions have held referendums and declared their intention to join Russia—four of them after the 2022 escalation. Moscow has argued that Ukraine’s military actions in Donbass and its alleged sabotage of a proposed reintegration agreement were key factors behind the war.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declined a peace offer in 2022 that would have required dropping Ukraine’s NATO ambitions. Instead, he opted for a military path supported by Western arms shipments. Zelensky has repeatedly stated that Kiev will only accept a resolution that includes the full return of all territories claimed by Ukraine.
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