Ukraine's intelligence chief predicts year of positive developments
Photo: Kyrylo Budanov, Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
2025 will undoubtedly be a better year for Ukraine than 2024, with the potential for many "positive developments," said Kyrylo Budanov, Head of Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence.
Budanov recalled that at the end of 2023, he was asked about his expectations for 2024. At that time, he honestly replied that 2024 “won't be good” and “will be very difficult” for Ukraine.
"If asked the same question about 2025, I have much more optimism. 2025 will undoubtedly be better than this year. There are specific reasons for that. I hope we will witness many positive events in 2025 that will ultimately bring us what we have been waiting for," Budanov emphasized.
He warned that if Russia does not "come to its senses" by mid-2025, it will face very difficult decisions regarding its financial and economic systems.
"Are they (Russians - ed.) prepared for this? Possibly. Do they want it? I can say with 100% certainty, no. They will do everything to avoid it," Budanov noted.
He stressed that the responsibility for ensuring Russia fulfills all fair conditions for peace depends largely on Ukrainians.
Meanwhile, Budanov assured that Ukraine is not only waiting for victory but actively working towards it.
"We believe in victory, and I am confident we will achieve it. With that in mind, let’s enter 2025," he concluded.
Budanov's forecast
In September, Kyrylo Budanov highlighted that by the summer of 2025, the negative impact on Russia's economy will become "highly noticeable."
According to the head of Ukraine's intelligence, Russia will also face a significant shortfall in military recruitment by mid-2025. Therefore, Moscow may need to announce a new wave of mobilization.
