Russia's strategic persistence threatens Ukrainian sovereignty

Vadym Skibitsky, Deputy Head of Ukraine's Military Intelligence (HUR), in a conversation with the RBK-Ukraine portal, emphasized that Russia's strategic goals in the war with Ukraine remain unchanged. Russia aims for the complete occupation of Ukraine, and if that turns out to be impossible, for total control over the country, making it neutral or pro-Russian.

Cited by the Polish Press Agency, Skibitsky noted that Russian documents have already stipulated that Ukraine should be neutral or pro-Russian. "Their troop formation remains strong – over 620,000 soldiers of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation are deployed in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine and in the Kursk region. The regrouping of forces and replenishment of Russia's combat losses is ongoing," informed the Deputy Head of HUR, quoted by PAP.

HUR indicates that Russia plans to increase drone production and is preparing massive attacks on Ukraine. Skibitsky reported that, according to Russian commanders, if plans for the first half of the year are realized, they will be able to launch approximately 500 unmanned aerial vehicles simultaneously.

The Russians are planning not only to increase the number of drones but also to expand the network of launch platforms for unmanned vehicles. The main targets of their attacks remain unchanged: the command systems of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, aviation, airports, energy and gas infrastructure, and defence industry facilities.

Skibitsky emphasized that Russia is intensively attacking the gas extraction and transportation system, trying to deprive Ukraine of its resources. He also noted a change in the strike tactics – the Russian army is planning attacks more precisely to inflict maximum damage.