KYIV. Ukraine Gate . 28 . December . 2022 | War News .
The former Commander-in-Chief of NATO forces in Europe, General James Jones, said in an interview with “Voice of America” that Russia was defeated already today. He noted that the goals of the Russian military in Ukraine may have changed, because they probably will not be able to achieve the goals they initially set .
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“She (Russia – ed.) was forced to retreat, although she does not admit it, but the military community, NATO and the USA understand it. I think that many were probably surprised by her failures,” the general stated.
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According to Jones, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin was confident that the war would be short and that “NATO would react to it somewhat weakly.” However, the alliance “firmly and confidently” supports Ukraine, and if the supply of military aid to Kyiv continues and their speed increases, then the country will be able to strike at longer distances, he added.
The general also expressed hope that the war will end in 2023. When asked how he sees the end of the war and what Ukraine’s victory could look like, James Jones replied that the conflict could drag on. But if Russia is ready to negotiate a settlement that would be acceptable to the Ukrainian people, it is necessary to achieve obligations from Moscow not to invade other countries, he noted.
“When this conflict ends, however it ends, we must have a plan that can help Ukraine quickly regain its potential. Ukraine, I believe, is destined to be at the forefront of Europe’s defense for a long time – depending on what happens in Russia… Here are three things that I think are extremely important: the rapid delivery of aid, the provision of humanitarian aid and a long-term plan for the recovery of Ukraine. Once that becomes a reality, this battle will be over,” the general concluded.
Source: Ukrgate