Syrskyi: Ukraine has started a defensive operation.

Kyiv, Ukraine (Svidomi) — Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi said in an interview with German TV channel ZDF that Ukraine has moved to a defensive operation. Syrskyi gave the interview a few days before he was appointed Commander-in-Chief.

Currently, Russians are advancing practically along the entire front line.

"The goal of our operation is to deplete the enemy's forces, inflict maximum losses on them using fortifications, technical advantages, electronic warfare, and hold the defence lines," he said.

One of the most challenging areas is Kupiansk, as the Russians have set themselves the goal of capturing the town at any cost. It is a town in the Kharkiv region, 40 kilometres from the Russian border and more than 115 kilometres from Kharkiv. At the beginning of the full-scale invasion, the Russians occupied it, but it was liberated in a counter-offensive in September 2022. The city is currently under constant Russian air attacks.

According to the new Commander-in-Chief, this war is moving into a new stage due to technological progress in the Armed Forces and the armed struggle itself. Here, he highlights the role of drones and unmanned aerial vehicles, which allow us to see different parts of the frontline.

He also said that the lives of soldiers are the primary value for the Ukrainian army. Russian losses are six to seven times higher.

"I'd rather withdraw from some position but save the personnel," Syrskyi said. 

In addition, he said that the weapons Ukraine receives from its partners are not enough. Moreover, the weapons can wear out.