Budanov revealed Russia's plans for 2026: Donbas and Zaporizhzhia under threat.

According to ТСН: Russia does not plan to stop the war and has clear objectives in military planning for the coming years. Despite the fact that the enemy's pace of advancement does not meet their expectations, the threat to eastern and southern Ukraine remains serious.

This was reported by Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, in an interview with Suspilne.

Budanov emphasized that one should not expect a lull on the front. The occupiers continue to press, implementing their strategy of attrition and territorial capture.

“I tell you again, the Russian Federation does not cease its offensive operation. They have not achieved the pace they dreamed of, but they are moving forward,” Budanov stated.

What are the enemy's goals

According to Budanov's information, the Russian army has clear objectives for the near term.

“They (the objectives - ed.) are clearly defined in their military planning. This is complete control over the Donetsk region, maximum advancement in the Dnipropetrovsk region, and continuation of operations in the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, which they have never hidden,” Budanov noted.

Besides, the occupiers seek to secure their interests at the expense of Ukrainian territory by creating so-called ‘sanitary zones’.

“This is, so to speak, their task. Along with the increase in the size of sanitary zones, buffer zones, whatever you want to call them, along the border,” the intelligence officer added.

The occupiers' 'dream' for 2026

Budanov also voiced a forecast regarding the enemy's plans for 2026. The Kremlin is trying to gain full control over the east and south of Ukraine.

“In principle, the task for 2026 is Donbas and Zaporizhzhia,” he said.

When asked by a reporter if this refers to the entire region, Budanov answered briefly and unequivocally: “This is their dream.”

The operational situation in the Zaporizhzhia direction has been deteriorating lately. Russian occupation forces are intensifying the intensity of hostilities, pressing on areas that were previously considered relatively stable.

Experts point out that the enemy has intensified artillery shelling, trying to 'scorch' the territory ahead of possible offensive actions. The actions of the opponent are within the reach of barrel and rocket artillery, which poses risks to both civil and military infrastructure.

Huliaipole remains a key stronghold in the region's defense. If it is lost, Russian troops may attempt to advance towards Orikhiv, allowing them to shorten the distance to Zaporizhzhia and increase fire pressure on the regional center.

Russia's actions on the front indicate the unchanging nature of its strategic objectives, putting not only military facilities but also the civilian population in Ukraine at risk. The situation in the east and south of the country remains tense, and its development requires careful monitoring by the international community.