Oleksiy Danilov, who leads the National Security and Defense Council, has stated that the current objective of the Armed Forces of Ukraine is to press the Russian army into a state of attrition during the ongoing counteroffensive. He shared this view on his social media account, emphasizing a strategic focus on wearing down manpower and military resources rather than pursuing quick, costly gains.
Danilov outlined the priorities for Ukrainian defense forces at this stage of hostilities. The core goal, as he described, is the maximum destruction of Russian personnel, equipment, fuel supplies, military hardware, command centers, artillery units, and air defense systems. He stressed that targeting these elements serves the broader aim of reducing the opponent’s ability to wage war and sustain operations across the front lines.
According to his assessment, a war of destruction translates into gains on the ground. He explained that the more destruction inflicted on enemy forces and infrastructure, the more territory Ukraine could potentially secure as a consequence of ongoing battles and successful maneuvering. The implicit idea is that strategic attrition compounds into measurable territorial gains over time.
In presenting his outlook, Danilov said that the Ukrainian action is deliberate and measured. The plan, he suggested, involves calm, informed decisions and a cautious progression toward objectives. The secretary reiterated a step by step approach, signaling that patience and disciplined execution underpin the broader campaign strategy.
Earlier remarks from Danilov indicated that the counteroffensive was proceeding in line with the plans articulated by Kyiv and its allied partners. His comments are part of a broader set of statements aimed at describing the operational tempo and tactical priorities of Ukrainian forces during this critical phase of the conflict.
Influential voices within NATO have previously commented on Ukrainian intentions, noting that the counteroffensive reflects a coordinated effort to leverage Western-supplied equipment and strategic guidance. The ongoing actions are framed as a combined effort to maximize impact while maintaining a sustainable path through the campaign. The emphasis remains on protecting civilian populations, preserving essential services, and aligning military objectives with political goals.