UKRAINE: THE SITUATION 730 - FEBRUARY 22, 2024

The Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev, stated that Russia will likely have to take over Kiev sooner or later, while also hinting at possible further territorial goals of Russia in Ukraine.

In an interview published on February 22, Medvedev responds to the question of whether there will be "any part of Ukraine left that [Russia] will consider a legitimate state, whose borders [Russia] will be willing to recognize." Medvedev explains that Russia must "protect its interests" by achieving the goals of the "special military operation" set by Russian President Vladimir Putin - referring to Russian demands for "demilitarization," "denazification," and neutrality of Ukraine. Medvedev reaffirms Russia's intention to replace the government in Ukraine and states that the Ukrainian government "must be overthrown, it must be destroyed, it must not remain in this world." Medvedev calls for Russia to build a "protective wall" to defend against "attacks on [Russian] territory," including shelling and active offensive actions. Medvedev says he does not know where Russia should "stop," but that Russia will likely have to take over and occupy Kiev, "if not now, then after some time."

Russian forces have confirmed advances near Bachmut and Avdiivka.

The full Russian Offensive Update 730 is available directly from UNDERSTANDING WAR.

UNDERSTANDING WAR