Russia's deadline: War in Ukraine to end by 2026, says think tank
The American Institute for the Study of War (ISW) states that Russia has set a specific deadline for ending the war in Ukraine. These conclusions were drawn based on statements from General Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR).
When Vladimir Putin initiated the war in Ukraine, he believed he could secure a swift victory. However, this did not materialise. The attacked nation mounted substantial resistance. Thus, the Russian leader's calculations were considerably flawed.
Although Russia has seized part of the Ukrainian territory in the southeast, Kyiv and most of Ukraine's land remains out of the aggressor's control.
Military actions are ongoing. Russia is pressing forward, while Ukrainians are defending themselves as best they can. Concurrently, there are numerous questions regarding the conclusion of the war. The latest reports suggest that Russia has set a date by which it must end the hostilities in Ukraine.
This information comes from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), which analysed the remarks of the head of Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR), General Kyrylo Budanov.
When will the war in Ukraine end? A date has been set
The mentioned institute believes that it is about the year 2026. By this time, Vladimir Putin intends to secure victory in Ukraine. This is due to his expectation of a significant economic downturn in Russia within less than two years and challenges in replenishing losses in the Russian army.
Russia reportedly aims to achieve a decisive victory in Ukraine by 2026 before likely medium- to long-term economic and force generation constraints begin to significantly degrade Russia's ability to sustain its war effort in Ukraine - according to the American think tank.
Budanov recently stated that Russia places great emphasis on 2025 and sees that year as its last chance to claim the status of a global superpower.
