No return to 1991 borders: Former Ukraine’s army chief warns of Russia’s war potential
Photo: Valerii Zaluzhnyi (Getty Images)
Ukraine should not expect a return to the 1991 borders. Russia has the resources to continue the war, according to a statement by Valerii Zaluzhnyi at the Security Export: Ukrainian Weapons in the World forum.
"I hope that there are no more people in this room who still believe in some kind of miracle or wonder — in a white swan that will bring peace to Ukraine, restore the 1991 or 2022 borders, and bring great happiness afterward," Zaluzhnyi said.
"In my personal opinion, as long as the enemy has the resources, the strength, and the means to strike our territory and attempt localized offensive actions, they will continue to do so."
According to him, Russia’s ability to wage war will primarily depend on its access to resources. He noted that since the end of 2023, Russia has been fighting a war of attrition.
Zaluzhnyi believes that victory in the war is only possible by completely destroying Russia’s ability to wage it.
"I mean the destruction of its military-economic potential. Under our current conditions — with an enormous shortage of human resources and the catastrophic economic situation we’re facing — we can only talk about a high-tech war of survival. One that uses minimal human resources and minimal economic means to achieve maximum effect. Ukraine is simply incapable of fighting any other kind of war given its demographic and economic realities, and we shouldn’t even entertain that thought," he said.
Ukraine’s return to the 1991 borders
Ukraine’s priority goal in the war with Russia is to regain control over its internationally recognized 1991 borders. Allied countries have repeatedly expressed confidence that Ukraine will be able to achieve this objective.
However, the situation has recently changed due to a number of factors that are slowing down or even preventing the provision of assistance to Ukraine. In particular, a critical shortage of ammunition, the need to replenish manpower, and the challenges of securing financial and military support all play a significant role in this issue.
