Ukraine Urges Western Aid to Outlast Russia’s Expected Winter Campaign
Ukraine’s chief spymaster, Major General Kyrylo Budanov, has called on Western governments to provide more aid and weapons to Kyiv in order to counter Russia’s anticipated winter campaign. Major General Budanov emphasized that Ukraine’s ability to build up its arsenal and withstand Russia’s aggression relies on support from external players, as the country’s domestic arms industry has suffered from corruption, underinvestment, and sabotage over the years.
In an interview with The Economist, Major General Budanov stressed that while Russia is mostly self-reliant, Ukraine must rely on Western assistance. He revealed that Russia’s weapon reserves are expected to run out by 2026, highlighting the need for Ukraine to prepare for a prolonged conflict. However, he cautioned that a protracted war poses great risks, especially considering Ukraine’s dwindling resources.
President Volodymyr Zelensky will also travel to New York for a meeting of the United Nations General Assembly, where he plans to appeal to allies for unwavering military support. This diplomatic effort comes amid concerns over a potential decrease in support for Kyiv, sparked by criticism of Ukraine’s counter-offensive. Anonymous officials have raised doubts about the continuation of ammunition deliveries, which could effectively halt the assault.
Yet, Major General Budanov insisted that he has good intelligence regarding the mindset of Western powers. He asserted that warehouses in Western countries are not completely empty and that Ukraine’s military intelligence agency can clearly observe this as an external player.
Ukraine has made advancements in its military capabilities, including the domestic production of drones and long-range missiles. This development has reduced its reliance on Western partners for striking targets inside Russia, a contentious issue particularly in the United States. Major General Budanov stated that these strikes aim to exhaust Russia’s air-defense systems, disable military transport and bomber aircraft, and disrupt its military production facilities. He dismissed fears of escalation by highlighting that no one perceives the UK or the United States as aggressors in World War II despite their bombings in Germany.
The war in Ukraine is expected to enter a new phase in a month when the annual muddy season brings offensive maneuvers to a temporary halt. Ukraine’s military intelligence agency is formulating a strategy of deterrence and retaliation to counter Russia’s anticipated winter campaign, which is expected to involve long-range strikes on critical infrastructure. Major General Budanov confidently stated that Ukraine will provide a resolute answer to any aggression.
In conclusion, Ukraine urgently appeals for continued Western aid and military support as it prepares to face Russia’s expected winter campaign. President Zelensky’s visit to the United Nations General Assembly seeks to rally allies and maintain their backing. Major General Budanov emphasizes Ukraine’s reliance on external players due to the shortcomings of its domestic arms industry. With its intelligence capabilities, Ukraine is well aware of the availability of resources in Western warehouses. While Ukraine seeks to outlast Russia, it is also aware of the risks posed by a prolonged war and its dwindling resources.
