Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu: Ukraine’s Military Resources Almost Exhausted, Says Preliminary Results of Hostilities
Russian Defense Minister: Ukraine’s Military Resources Almost Exhausted
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, speaking at a security conference in Moscow, stated that Ukraine’s military resources are nearly depleted, as shown by the preliminary results of hostilities.
Foreign Advisors Using Ukrainian Soldiers to Test Western Weapons
Shoigu also mentioned that foreign advisors are utilizing Ukrainian soldiers to test various military operations using Western weapons. The Russian Defense Ministry is closely analyzing these training programs based on NATO methods to counter them.
Possible Reconsideration of Cluster Munitions Use
Shoigu did not rule out the possibility of Russia reconsidering its decision not to use cluster munitions in its arsenal, especially in light of the US delivery of such munitions to Ukraine.
Russian Defense Ministry’s Commitment to Recover Russian Army Personnel
The Russian Defense Ministry promised to continue efforts to bring back Russian army personnel from captivity.
Increased Risk of Direct Military Clash
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed concerns about the United States, NATO, and the European Union supplying weapons to Ukraine, stating that this significantly raises the risk of a direct military clash between nuclear powers.
Missile Attack and Repulsed Ukrainian Attacks
In a recent report, the Russian Defense Ministry announced a missile attack on key military industry enterprises in Ukraine, causing significant damage to Ukraine’s military-industrial complex. The report also mentioned the repulsion of Ukrainian attacks in various directions, resulting in casualties and equipment losses for the Ukrainian army.
Ukrainian National Security Council’s Stance on Peace Plan
The Secretary of the National Security Council of Ukraine, Oleksiy Danilov, stated that Kiev is not ready to make concessions regarding Volodymyr Zelensky’s peace plan. However, he mentioned the possibility of flexibility in altering certain aspects of the plan’s implementation.
Pressure and Opposition to Negotiations
Danilov denied claims that Ukraine is being pressured by its allies to start negotiations with Russia. He also opposed the idea of Russian President Vladimir Putin meeting with Zelensky through the mediation of Pope Francis.
Kremlin’s Stance on Peaceful Resolution
The Kremlin stated that there are currently no prerequisites for a peaceful resolution in Ukraine, emphasizing that military means remain the only option to achieve the goals of the special operation. However, the Kremlin appreciates the efforts of countries seeking a peaceful solution and expects all demands to be acknowledged.
Russia’s Special Military Operation in Ukraine
Russia initiated a special military operation in Ukraine on February 24, 2022, with the aim of protecting people who have suffered from the Kiev regime. The operation was deemed necessary due to security risks and the failure to reach agreements with NATO on European security principles.