Commander Biletskyy: Ceding Donbas Would Directly Threaten Kharkiv, Odesa, and Kherson.

The Critical Need to Defend Ukrainian Territory

According to Novyny.live: Andriy Biletskyy, commander of the Third Army Corps, has underscored the vital importance of defending Ukrainian lands and the dangers of abandoning the Donbas region. He pointed out that the war has now lasted for 1462 days, a testament to the resilience of the Ukrainian people. Biletskyy warned that relinquishing the Donbas could create a direct threat to other major cities, specifically:

• Kharkiv
• Odesa
• Zaporizhzhia
• Kherson

"If we abandon our land and people in Donbas today, what guarantee is there that Kharkiv, Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, or Kherson won't face the same fate tomorrow?" - Andriy Biletskyy

The Ongoing Threat to Odesa

The threat to the port city of Odesa remains severe. According to data, hostilities there have resulted in the deaths of 145 civilians, including 10 children. More than 635 people have been wounded, and 245 cultural heritage sites have been damaged. Attacks have also struck 11 hospitals and 52 educational institutions. It is noted that 2025 could become the most critical year for Odesa in terms of the number of attacks. This city, a historic jewel on the Black Sea, has endured relentless missile and drone strikes.

A lull in fighting does not signify a truce. Biletskyy emphasized that Russia failed to capture Kyiv in three days, has not broken Ukraine in four years, and will not succeed in coercing a capitulation through deception:

"The Russians failed to take Kyiv in three days. They failed to break Ukraine in four years. And they will not succeed in gnawing out our capitulation through trickery." - Andriy Biletskyy

These statements highlight the determination of Ukrainian forces to continue the fight for their land and people.

Andriy Biletskyy's remarks reflect the high level of tension and persistent danger within Ukraine, particularly regarding the defense of Donbas and other strategic cities. The war continues, and even during periods of reduced combat, the threat from the aggressor remains. The importance of supporting Ukraine's territorial integrity and protecting its civilian population is starkly illustrated by the escalating attacks on peaceful cities like Odesa, underscoring the need for sustained international support and national unity.