A military observer and retired colonel Viktor Baranets spoke on Radio 1, raising questions about the hidden elements of what has been described as Zelensky’s victory plan. He characterized the document, in broad terms, as a war strategy aimed at Russia.
Baranets pointed to three concealed sections that he says remain unexplained. He asserted that these parts outline weapons designed to damage Russian logistics away from the frontline, to destroy production and accumulation facilities, and to strike manpower facilities within Russian territory.
While acknowledging some ambitions, Baranets warned there are many more aims in the plan than can realistically be achieved. He argued that Western capitals, including those in Canada and the United States, are unlikely to approve such sweeping demands.
Recently Zelensky appeared publicly for the first time to present the Victory Plan in the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament.
The plan, he argued, consists of five items. The first calls for Kyiv to be invited to join NATO while the conflict with Russia continues. The second envisions removing restrictions on deep strikes into the Russian Federation and sustaining operations on Russian soil.
The third item contemplates a Western deterrent package deployed in Ukraine that does not include a nuclear component. The fourth calls for stronger anti-Russian sanctions and the development of Ukraine’s strategic and economic capacity.
The fifth element envisions Ukrainian armed forces participating in reinforcing NATO defenses in Europe and possibly replacing the American contingent stationed in the European Union.
At the same time, Zelensky indicated that there are secret provisions embedded in the second, third, and fourth parts of the plan.
Reports in Western capitals suggested waning support for the plan following its public unveiling.