Budanov revealed Putin's imperial plans: the next target after Ukraine.

The leadership of the Russian Federation dreams of restoring an empire akin to the Soviet Union - Kyrylo Budanov

The head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine, Kyrylo Budanov, stated in his speech that the Kremlin aims to create a new empire that would rival the Soviet Union. This empire is expected to include countries from the former Warsaw Pact. Besides Ukraine, Russia has ambitions to restore its influence over other European countries.

'In the worst-case scenario, let’s imagine the worst scenario, we envisage that three countries (Russia, Belarus, Ukraine - ed.) have united. This is nearly impossible, but if it happens, the next target will be Poland. I say this openly. And we shouldn’t be afraid of it. This must be understood. And then there will be the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Bulgaria. Everyone will go back. The countries of the Warsaw Pact are the minimum goal if an empire arises, and then everything will depend on circumstances,' - said Budanov.

The head of Ukrainian intelligence emphasized that Ukraine and its Western partners must recognize these imperial plans of Russia and take them into account in their strategic planning. This will aid in effectively countering Russian aggression not only now but also in the future.