Additionally, Anton Gerashchenko noted in the interview that Putin’s administration has become unstable as a result of the Ukrainian incursion into Russia.
Delhi, New: The Russian military has been under siege by Ukrainian soldiers for almost two weeks, marking the first time a foreign military has fought within Russia since World War II. The entry of Ukraine into the Kursk area, almost two years after Russian President Vladimir Putin began his invasion of Ukraine, is an unanticipated expansion. The Kremlin has responded by promising to drive the Ukrainian soldiers back, citing this as a top priority.
The former deputy minister of internal affairs of Ukraine, Anton Gerashchenko, spoke with Hindustan Times on Sunday as the Ukrainian air force targeted a crucial bridge that is essential to Russian supply routes in the Kursk region. He discussed the war’s future course, the potential for a truce, Kyiv’s chances of joining NATO, the possible impact of Trump’s return on US aid to Ukraine, and India’s neutral position on the conflict.
Q. What is your assessment of the current situation on the ground, and where do you see the conflict heading in the coming months? Are there any chances the war could end this year?
“Ukraine has frequently shown throughout the Russian-Ukrainian war that it is capable of drastically altering the direction of military operations. As seen by the Kursk area operation, Ukraine has demonstrated incredible perseverance in the face of adversity and converted unfavorable circumstances to its advantage. Putin’s administration is showing signs of weakness, and this offensive is producing significant military and political changes within Russia that will impact Ukraine’s allies. Putin’s mistrust of his generals, the large number of people he has imprisoned, and the lack of consensus among his inner circle suggest that his rule is unstable.
It is evident that the operation is interfering with Russian logistics, increasing Ukraine’s prisoner exchange budget, and compelling Russia to move military forces from eastern Ukraine to Kursk, even though it is too soon to predict exact results. Putin and the chiefs of the Russian military have clearly been taken aback by the operation. Regaining seized territory and guaranteeing just retribution against Russia are priorities for Ukraine after the war.
For Ukraine, this is an existential struggle for freedom and existence. This year, a total resolution to the issue seems doubtful, while a temporary freeze and discussions could be feasible by mid-autumn. Because Putin won’t talk, the war can only end with Russia’s loss or Ukraine’s collapse. Although I am adamant that Ukraine won’t be defeated, I do not think the war will finish quickly. Therefore, as we get ready for a hard winter, we must remain together and resilient.
Q. How seriously does the Ukrainian government take Putin’s threats? Do you believe Russia will ever accept a battlefield defeat in Ukraine?
“We consider Putin’s threats to be quite serious. His goals are to eradicate Ukrainian independence, drive out or relocate the populace, and absorb those who are left in regions that are under occupation.
In essence, Putin desires a “sanitary zone”—a burned-out, desolate area—between Russia and NATO. Ukrainians are aware of this.
“Ukrainians have courageously resisted with everything they have since we have witnessed the crimes against people since the beginning of the invasion. We must resist to survive.
Q. Given Tucker Carlson’s recent interview with Vladimir Putin, where he expressed surprise that Putin justified the invasion of Ukraine based on historical claims rather than fear of an imminent attack by the US or NATO, how do you respond to Putin’s rationale? What does this reveal about Russia’s long-term objectives in the region?
“Putin has aspirations that go beyond Ukraine and an imperialist worldview. He intends to use fake history to support his claims to the territory of Ukraine and other nearby countries. Ukraine is a sovereign state, and international law—not the historical illusions of autocrats—should define its contemporary borders.
“World anarchy would result from the militarization of territorial disputes. Chaos like this is unavoidable if Ukraine loses. Therefore, countries hoping to prevent protracted conflict and restore international security have a stake in Ukraine’s triumph.
Q. Do you believe there is still room for diplomacy between Ukraine and Russia?
Although Russia and Ukraine have a complicated shared past, we are more concerned with securing the future for our nation and its citizens. We appreciate India’s involvement in the Ukraine Peace Summit, which our President Volodymyr Zelensky convened because we value diplomacy above violence.
But when the opposing side recognizes your right to life and existence, then conversations become possible. Therefore, when Russia acknowledges the sovereignty of Ukraine, complies with its requests and international law, owns up to its crime, and makes amends, diplomacy can occur. This is feasible, in my opinion.
Q. India has maintained a neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and refrained from imposing any sanctions on Russia, unlike many Western countries. How do you view India’s decision to remain neutral in this situation?
Indeed, India has refrained from publicly denouncing Russia and has taken a neutral stand on the situation involving Ukraine. But in a meeting with Putin, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that a conflict is not the means to a goal. India has continuously campaigned for upholding the UN Charter, including the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, and has urged for discussion and diplomacy, whereas Russia’s actions have upended a precarious international order because of its imperial ambitions.
“You should be very respectful of your past. Therefore, considering India’s past battles for democracy and independence, I think the country, which has become a model democratic state, cannot overlook Ukraine’s resistance to colonialism. India might take the lead in forming a new global order among the “Global South,” with other countries probably following.
Q. What about NATO membership? Do you think Ukraine can ever secure a NATO membership? How important is it for Kyiv to join NATO?
Here, I’m speaking from personal experience. I think Ukraine has long been the eastern shield of Europe. Ukraine will eventually become a member of the European Collective Defense. Integration of Ukraine into Europe and its security system is necessary. Ukraine wants strong assurances of peace.
Q. How might the results of the US elections influence the Russia-Ukraine conflict? Could US financial support for Ukraine decrease if Trump is re-elected?
“Ukraine’s main ally and partner is the US. The US presidential winner will ultimately take office and put their nation’s interests first. Therefore, I don’t think Russia’s win is consistent with US foreign policy, especially in light of the fact that it would improve China’s standing.
