Budanov on war, Russia's resources, negotiations and geopolitics
Chef of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine Kyril Budanov said that Russia's key success in 2025 was the preservation of offensive actions, despite heavy losses and the high cost of the war. He said this in an interview on the eve of the New Year
According to Budanov, the Kremlin's strategic goals remain unchanged. They include an attempt to gain full control over Donetsk region, maximum progress towards Dnipro region, and active actions in Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. Russia's main tasks for 2026 are focused on Donbas and southern Ukraine
The head of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine noted that in 2025 Russia fulfilled the mobilisation plan of 403,000 contractors and will probably try to repeat it in 2026 with a plan of 409,000 people. The main incentive for recruitment remains significant lump sum payments, the amount of which varies by region
Budanov stressed that the Russian defence industry has reached peak performance. In December, Russia used more than 1,600 attack drones and nearly 70 missiles of various types, and massive strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure will continue, he said
At the same time, economic pressure on Russia is growing. According to Budanov, about 21 per cent of Russia's oil refining has been affected by the strikes on the fuel and energy sector. Russia's 2026 budget allocates about 46 per cent of spending on defence and security, which is a critical indicator for the long-term development of the economy
Speaking about the talks, Budanov stressed that the negotiation process is inevitable, but the territorial issue remains its key stumbling block. He also explained that China is the main strategic rival for the United States, and that Washington views contacts with Russia in a broader geopolitical context. According to the head of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, the strength of a state determines its position in negotiations, and this is what underlies the logic of American policy
Source: Suspilne
