Presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak stated that Ukraine’s incursion into Russia is not an occupation, but rather a strategic move to target Russia’s military infrastructure used to launch attacks into Ukrainian regions. The goal is not to occupy territory, but to temporarily destroy military capabilities. Podolyak assured that humanitarian needs of Russians living under Ukrainian control will be met. There are no plans to take over the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant, but Ukrainian forces will stay in Russia as long as necessary. The incursion aims to show that Moscow does not control its territory and to challenge Putin’s threats of using nuclear weapons. Despite Putin’s claims of provocation, Ukraine’s move was planned for over a year to divert Russian attention from elsewhere. Ukraine is willing to negotiate with Russia on its own terms but does not believe in exchanging territories. The operation is a way to counter Russian aggression and defend Ukraine’s sovereignty. Addressing international concerns, the U.S. has not observed any escalatory rhetoric regarding nuclear weapons from Putin post-incursion. Ukraine is committed to defending its borders and will engage in negotiations with Russia based on its own national interests.
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