Russia does not see itself as a federation, but seeks to revive its empire, said Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR), during the YES conference in Kyiv dedicated to the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. This was reported by the Kyiv Post.
Budanov noted that the imperial ambitions of the current Kremlin leadership are modelled on the Soviet Union, but with the inclusion of the countries of the former Warsaw Pact.
“Imagine the worst-case scenario: three countries uniting into one. This is almost impossible, but this is exactly what Russia is striving for,” Budanov stressed.
According to him, if the Kremlin succeeds in creating a new imperial order, Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Bulgaria may become the next victims.
“Poland will be next, I’m telling you that directly. And we should not be afraid, we should be aware of the reality,” he stressed.
Next, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Bulgaria will be under attack. This is the minimum base for building an empire, after which Russian expansion can spread even further, Budanov added.
Russia seeks respite
Budanov also stressed that Moscow is aware that it is unrealistic to achieve its strategic goals quickly. Despite the fact that Russian troops are advancing, their progress is insufficient to meet the Kremlin’s objectives.
“Now Russia needs a pause to regain its strength, and then they will reopen a window of opportunity to realise their strategic ambitions,” the head of Ukrainian intelligence explained.
Russia’s stated goals, including the occupation of the entire Donbas, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, and the retention of Crimea, are only part of a global plan.
“Russia needs much more. This cannot be achieved by war alone, so a break is needed,” Budanov concluded.
Europe steps up support for Ukraine
His statements came against the backdrop of increased military assistance to Ukraine from Northern Europe and the Baltic states. On the same day, the presidents and prime ministers of these countries announced an expansion of the training programme for the Ukrainian military and an increase in arms supplies.
Meanwhile, in Washington, French President Emmanuel Macron discussed with Donald Trump the possibility of a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia. On Monday, Trump himself announced “constructive talks” with Vladimir Putin to resolve the conflict and possible “major economic agreements” between the US and Russia.
