Oleksiy Danilov’s Interview: Ukraine Poised for Counter-Offensive, Timing Undisclosed
In a recent interview, Oleksiy Danilov refrained from providing a specific date but expressed that Ukraine’s assault to reclaim territory from President Vladimir Putin’s occupying forces could commence in the near future, potentially “tomorrow, the day after tomorrow, or in a week.”
Danilov emphasized the crucial nature of the decision, cautioning that Ukraine’s government must not make any mistakes as this represents a historic opportunity that cannot be squandered.
As the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine and a key member of President Volodymyr Zelensky’s de facto war cabinet, Danilov’s interview with the BBC was momentarily interrupted by a message from President Zelensky, summoning him to a meeting to discuss the counter-offensive.
During the interview, Danilov also confirmed the withdrawal of some Wagner mercenary forces from the city of Bakhmut, the site of the war’s most violent battle to date. However, he noted that these forces were merely regrouping in three other locations and would continue their hostilities against Ukraine.
Addressing concerns about Russia’s deployment of nuclear weapons to Belarus, Danilov expressed a calm demeanor, stating that it held no surprises for Ukraine.
Ukraine has been meticulously planning the counter-offensive for several months, aiming to train its troops adequately and receive military support from Western allies. Meanwhile, Russian forces have been fortifying their defenses.
The stakes are high, as the Kyiv government needs to demonstrate to both the Ukrainian people and Western allies its ability to breach Russian lines, break the military deadlock, and reclaim sovereign territory.
Regarding the readiness of Ukrainian armed forces for the offensive, Danilov affirmed their perpetual preparedness, highlighting their unwavering commitment to defending the country. He stressed that the timing of the assault would be determined by commanders to ensure the most favorable outcome in the ongoing war.
Danilov concluded by emphasizing the significance of the historic opportunity bestowed upon Ukraine, expressing the nation’s aspiration to become an independent and prominent European country.