In an exclusive interview with The Guardian, the Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Oleksandr Syrsky, expressed confidence that retaking Crimea is a realistic objective. According to Syrsky, Kyiv has a clear plan for reclaiming the peninsula, although details of this plan remain classified.
Key Points from the Interview
Syrsky emphasized the importance of liberating all occupied territories and restoring Ukraine’s borders to those of 1991. He also highlighted that, unlike the Russian occupiers, who are prepared to hold onto ruins at any cost, Ukraine prioritizes the protection of its citizens.
Preparedness for Defense
The Commander-in-Chief stated that should the Russian forces attempt an offensive in the Zaporizhzhia region, the Ukrainian Defense Forces are well-positioned to deliver a strong response. Since 2022, the number of Russian tanks has doubled from 1,700 to 3,500, and the number of artillery systems has tripled from 4,500 to 8,900.
Importance of Mobilization
Syrsky noted that without mobilization, it is impossible to create new reserves and necessary brigades. The Russian Federation continues to bolster its ground forces, making mobilization crucial for Ukraine’s defense. At the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Russia had 100,000 troops; this number has now increased to 250,000, with plans to expand to 690,000 by the end of 2024.
Context of Russian Aggression
Syrsky’s interview sheds light on the scale and severity of Russian aggression against Ukraine. The increase in military forces and equipment from Russia indicates that the aggressor does not plan to halt its actions. However, according to the Commander-in-Chief, Ukraine is prepared for any scenario and has a strategy to reclaim its territories.
The return of Crimea and the liberation of occupied territories are not just aspirations but concrete plans that Ukrainian military leaders are actively working on. Syrsky assures that Ukraine will do everything in its power to achieve these goals, with every step bringing the country closer to victory.
For those interested in more insights on the plans and statements of Ukrainian leaders, check out the article “Victory for Ukraine is a Reality Where the World Will Be Just, and New Wars Will Be Impossible – Kuleba at the Dubrovnik Forum in Croatia” at this link.