Russia's unwavering strategy: Occupation or alignment for Ukraine

Vadym Skibitsky, deputy head of Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR), emphasized in an interview with the RBK-Ukraine portal that Russia's strategic goals in the war with Ukraine remain unchanged. Russia aims for the full occupation of Ukraine, and if that proves impossible, for complete control over the country to make 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. "The grouping of their forces remains strong - this is over 620,000 Russian Federation Armed Forces soldiers deployed in temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine and in the Kursk region. The regrouping of forces and replenishment of Russia's combat losses continues," the deputy head of HUR informed, as reported by PAP.

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

The Russians plan not only to increase the number of drones but also to expand the network of launch platforms for unmanned vehicles. The main objectives of the attacks remain unchanged: the command systems of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, aviation, airports, energy and gas infrastructure, and defense 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 strike tactics—the Russian army is planning attacks more precisely to cause maximum damage.