Budanov says Ukraine is approaching landmark battle for modern history

Budanov shared his opinions in an interview with RBC-Ukraine.

"Like it or not, we are approaching a landmark battle in the modern history of Ukraine. This is a fact, everyone understands it. When it will start is a secret. But everyone understands that we are approaching it," said the Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine.

As for the lack of desired success during the upcoming battle, Budanov said, "Anything is possible. Will it happen? The fate of Ukraine is in the hands of Ukraine. No matter what someone encourages or discourages us to do, the final decision is ours. This is my answer."

In such a case, the intelligence officer suggests that Western allies may slow down or suspend the supply of military aid, but this will not happen in the near future.

"Theoretically, they can. But I don't think it will really happen as of now. Besides, we still have something. And we have been fighting war using it for over a year. Yes, we are quite dependent on the volume of supplies. But if any of the countries (I don't think your question applies to all countries combined) decides to slow down, someone will take their place. We will look for options. But in the end, I don't think that will happen," the intelligence chief emphasized. "I would like to intensify and increase these volumes, but we will proceed from what we have," he added.

• The head of the Main Intelligence Directorate, Kyrylo Budanov, said that if the temporarily occupied Crimean peninsula is liberated before Donbas, the war will continue.  He also explained   why the Russian army is trying to capture Bakhmut despite significant losses.

• The DIU reported that China has not yet transferred any ammunition to Russia and is not intending to do so. 

• Budanov suggests a coup in the Kremlin against dictator Vladimir Putin in the event of a defeat in the war against Ukraine, but society is unlikely to witness it.

• Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate Kyrylo Budanov explained why the Russian army is trying to capture Bakhmut in the Donetsk region despite significant losses.