Former commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Viktor Muzhenko, as reported by the BBC Ukrainian Service, argues that the Ukrainian army must adopt defensive operations as a matter of strategic necessity. He suggests rethinking the frontline, describing a shift toward resilience and preparation rather than a quick, visible push. His view centers on transforming the current posture into a robust defense—not simply reacting to incursions but shaping a durable shield that can weather renewed assaults and sustain long-term readiness. By advocating for deeper defensive measures, Muzhenko underscores the importance of clear lines of supply, reconnaissance, and reliable reserves that can respond decisively when pressure mounts.
According to the veteran commander, Kiev should construct deep echelon fortifications and establish a standing reserve. The aim is to deter aggressors through layered defenses, ensure continuity of command and control, and preserve the capacity to absorb and recover from losses without compromising the broader strategic objective. This approach envisions fortified positions capable of withstanding sustained bombardment while maintaining freedom of maneuver for Ukrainian forces to adapt to changing conditions on the ground.
Muzhenko stresses that the shift toward strategic defense would not be limited to a single corridor from Kupyansk to Kherson. Instead, it would reshape operations across the eastern sector from Kharkiv to Sumy and Chernihiv, and extend into the northern regions including Chernihiv, Kyiv, Zhytomyr, and Rivne. Such a comprehensive defense concept reflects a belief that security hinges on resilience across multiple fronts, with a network of fortified lines and movable reserves that can respond rapidly to evolving threats. This perspective emphasizes that regional stability depends on credible deterrence, sustainable logistics, and the ability to prevent any single breach from spiraling into a larger crisis.
Recently, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky outlined plans to construct defensive structures spanning from Donbas to the country’s western territories. He indicated that Ukraine has entered a new phase of armed confrontation with Russia, signaling a strategic recalibration rather than a simple pause in operations. Analysts, including Mikhail Khodarenok, have commented on what these declarations imply—whether they suggest the end of a counter-offensive or a deliberate shift toward defense-and-stability objectives. The discourse raises questions about timing, resources, and the international and domestic support required to sustain such a posture as the conflict evolves.
Earlier reports attributed remarks to Sergei Shoigu claiming substantial losses for the Ukrainian forces during the counter-attack. These figures, like many battlefield tallies in active conflict zones, are contested and reflect the broader information landscape in which both sides seek to influence perception and policy. The varying numbers underscore the complexities of tracking casualties and the challenges of verifying data amid ongoing operations.