Budanov: Russia's main goals in 2026 are Donbas and Zaporizhzhia region
Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine Kirill Budanov said that Russia's key military objectives for 2026 remain full control over Donbas and Zaporizhzhya region.
Russia's main plans for 2026
According to the head of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, Donbas and the Zaporizhzhia direction are the Kremlin's strategic «dream». Also, Russian troops will try to advance as much as possible in the Dnipro region to create additional pressure on the central part of Ukraine.
Budanov stressed that the territorial issue is the main point of contention in any potential peace talks.
Mobilisation and human resources in Russia
The head of Ukrainian intelligence said that in 2025 Russia fulfilled the mobilisation plan for 103%. Instead of the planned 403,000 people, this figure was reached in early December.
By 2026, the Russian leadership plans to recruit about 409 thousand military personnel. Financial incentives, such as higher salaries and contractual bonuses, remain the main tool for attracting them.
Peace talks and «red lines»
Budanov emphasised that no party in a weaker position can dictate the terms of the negotiations. According to him, a true compromise is when both sides leave the negotiations unsatisfied.
He also categorically opposed any transfer of Ukrainian territories, stressing that disrupting mobilisation in Ukraine is one of Russia's key operational objectives.
Risks to Europe and energy threats
The head of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine noted that Russia is forming a strategic reserve for possible wars in other countries, particularly in the Baltic region. At the same time, as long as the war against Ukraine continues, Russia is not expected to attack other states.
Budanov also warned that massive attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure would continue, and that February may offer a window of opportunity to reach certain agreements if both sides are ready for it.
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