Capturing Odesa is Putin’s strategic goal, key to Russia’s victory — General Clark

He expressed this opinion on Espreso TV.

"It is important to clearly understand Russia's likely strategy. Its tactic is to create a threat to Kharkiv and Sumy to force Ukraine to redirect additional reserves to defend the northeastern front. However, Russia's true strategic goal remains Odesa. The main efforts are likely still focused on the Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Mykolaiv directions, with further advancement towards Odesa. From Russia's perspective, capturing Odesa would mean the end of the war and a de facto victory. Therefore, at this stage, Ukraine's main priority should be strategic defense. Anything that can undermine Russia's logistical capabilities is extremely important and advisable," said Clark.

The general believes that Ukraine does not have enough resources to exhaust Russia's military machine. He added that the main task remains convincing Putin that a military victory in this war is impossible.

"For example, if it's possible to disrupt Russia's ability to carry out operations from Crimea by striking railway connections, bridges, or other supply routes transporting resources, it will significantly complicate their advance towards Kherson. At the same time, in my opinion, the situation should primarily be approached from a military perspective. I don't think Kyiv currently has enough resources to wage this war solely with the aim of inflicting pain on Russia. The main task is to convince Putin that he cannot win this war through military means," he added.

• On April 11, in St. Petersburg, U.S. Special Representative Steve Witkoff held a meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, which lasted over 4 hours. Meanwhile, the White House called it "a step towards a ceasefire" in Ukraine.