In an exclusive interview with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, the Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, General Oleksandr Syrskyi, has provided a rare glimpse into the strategy behind Ukraine’s bold military incursion into Russia’s Kursk region. This marks the first time that a Ukrainian military leader has publicly discussed such operations, shedding light on Ukraine’s evolving tactics as the war with Russia grinds on.
Speaking to Amanpour from an undisclosed frontline location, General Syrskyi describes the Kursk operation as a carefully planned effort aimed at disrupting Russian supply lines and undermining the morale of Russian forces. The incursion is part of Ukraine’s broader counteroffensive strategy, intended to create instability behind Russian lines and force Moscow to divert resources from the main battlegrounds in the south and east of Ukraine.
“The goal was to send a message,” Syrskyi explains. “We wanted to show that Ukraine can strike deep into Russian territory, that our forces are not confined to defending but are capable of taking the fight to the enemy.” He adds that the incursion into Kursk, though symbolic, had practical military objectives, including targeting Russian logistics hubs and command centers.
Throughout the interview, Syrskyi paints a vivid picture of the daily reality for Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines. He acknowledges the heavy toll the war has taken on the Ukrainian Army but remains optimistic about their resilience and fighting spirit. According to Syrskyi, morale remains high, bolstered by international support and the growing sense among Ukrainian troops that they are defending their homeland and their very identity.
“The Ukrainian Army is made up of ordinary men and women who are doing extraordinary things,” Syrskyi says. “We know what we are fighting for—our freedom, our families, our future. That’s what keeps us going, even in the hardest moments.”
Syrskyi also reflects on the challenges of confronting a much larger and better-equipped Russian military. He credits Ukraine’s recent successes on the battlefield to a combination of innovative tactics and effective use of Western military aid, particularly advanced artillery systems and intelligence-sharing with NATO allies.
Despite these challenges, Syrskyi emphasizes that Ukraine is committed to continuing its counteroffensive and ultimately reclaiming all occupied territories, including Crimea. He expresses confidence in Ukraine’s ability to achieve this goal, pointing to the strategic gains made in recent months, including the ongoing resistance in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
When asked about future operations, Syrskyi remains tight-lipped but hints that Ukraine’s military strategy will continue to involve both defensive and offensive measures. He emphasizes the importance of unpredictability in warfare, suggesting that Ukraine’s tactics will evolve as the conflict progresses.
The interview with General Syrskyi offers a rare inside look at the mindset of Ukraine’s military leadership as they wage one of the most intense and brutal wars in recent European history. It also serves as a reminder of the high stakes involved—not just for Ukraine, but for the broader international order, as the outcome of this conflict will likely shape the geopolitical landscape for years to come.
As the war continues, Ukraine’s leadership is making it clear that they are prepared for a long struggle, even as they call on the international community for continued support.
