Norwegian General on Russia's Goals: Why Putin Has Not Changed His Plans for Ukraine.

According to ТСН: The strategies of Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding Ukraine have remained unchanged since the beginning of the full-scale invasion in February 2022.

This was stated by the Chief of Defense of Norway, General Eirik Kristoffersen, in an interview.

According to him, the Kremlin continues to seek control over significant parts of Ukrainian territory, establish a pro-Moscow regime in Kyiv, and hinder Ukraine's rapprochement with Western security structures.

“I do not think that Putin's goals have changed since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. He wants to have a larger piece of Ukraine as part of Russia, a pro-Russia regime in Kyiv, and to stop Ukraine's movement towards the West,” Kristoffersen emphasized.

At the same time, the Norwegian general noted that Russia has not achieved its strategic goals. Ukraine stands against aggression, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy retains his position thanks to public support, and NATO, on the contrary, has expanded — Finland and Sweden have joined the Alliance.

“Even when faced with the reality on the battlefield, Putin has not given up his ambitions and will try to achieve them by various means,” he said.

Kristoffersen also emphasized that by the end of 2025, a key task for partners will remain the continued support of Ukraine.

“We all want peace, but it must come on Ukraine's terms. Otherwise, it will not be a lasting and just peace,” concluded the Chief of Defense of Norway.

Earlier, U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matt Whitaker shared his thoughts on what Ukraine should prepare for in 2026.

These comments underscore the continuation of the Kremlin's aggressive policy and the importance of international support for Ukraine in its fight for independence. General Kristoffersen emphasizes the need for united efforts to ensure stability in the region, reflecting the realities of contemporary geopolitics.