Presidential adviser unveils details of Ukraine's victory plan

Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak has outlined a comprehensive strategy aimed at compelling Russia to conclude its war.

This plan includes military, economic, political, and diplomatic measures. Key elements of the strategy involve requesting additional long-range missiles, specifically ATACMS and Storm Shadow, and the authority to target military installations deep within Russia, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

Podolyak believes that this could alter President Putin's calculations by intensifying domestic pressure and weakening Russia’s frontline forces. However, the US has hesitated to grant this request, concerned that it might be perceived by Russia as a significant escalation.

Podolyak warned that without increased support for Ukraine, the conflict could prolong for years, ultimately undermining the global influence of Western nations. He emphasised that forcing Ukraine to negotiate from a disadvantageous position would only embolden Putin in his pursuit of total control over Ukraine.

"Why should he stop? He can only compete with the West through fear—by instilling fear, he believes he can achieve his objectives," Podolyak stated. 

Kyiv is eager to demonstrate that it would effectively utilize any additional support. In August, Ukraine's military executed a surprise offensive in Russia’s Kursk region, swiftly capturing around 100 towns and villages, which it has largely retained since then.

Ukraine has initiated a series of long-range attacks within Russia and in occupied areas, targeting and destroying ammunition and fuel depots. However, Ukrainian frontline units are facing significant challenges due to shortages of basic equipment, such as armored vehicles and artillery, as well as a lack of personnel. 

To avoid demographic collapse and further social unrest, the Ukrainian government is not mobilizing anyone under 25, while military draft officers have been seen checking documents and issuing summonses in public areas, including outside a recent concert in Kyiv featuring one of the country’s most popular bands. Podolyak noted that the situation is gradually improving, with Ukraine managing to conduct some troop rotations and expand its reserves.

The French government recently announced it is training and equipping a Ukrainian brigade, with around 2,300 soldiers participating in exercises in France since early September. On the home front, the Ukrainian populace is increasingly weary from the ongoing conflict, and polls indicate a slight rise in support for negotiations.

However, this does not imply readiness for concessions; according to an August survey by the Democratic Initiatives Foundation, less than 10 per cent of respondents would be willing to cede any territory to Moscow in order to end the war.

By Naila Huseynova