Military intelligence documents leaked online reveal that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy considered plans to attack beyond Russian borders to gain leverage over the invading forces. Among the Ukrainian's secret plans: occupy Russian villages, bombing an oil pipeline that transfers Russian oil to Hungary, and firing long-range missiles at targets beyond the Russian border. In a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Yuliya Svrydenko in mid-February, he proposed Ukraine "conduct strikes in Russia" and mobilize troops to cross into enemy territory to "occupy unspecified Russian border cities." The actions proposed by Zelenskiy are in stark contrast to his stoic public persona and contradict assurances made to US officials that Ukraine would prioritize using donated weapons only for defensive purposes within Ukraine's borders.
"These leaked documents provide a rare insight into the strategic thinking of President Zelenskyy," said Dr. Michael Thompson, a political analyst specializing in Eastern European affairs. "While it is not surprising that any leader facing such aggression might contemplate more aggressive measures, these revelations could potentially damage diplomatic efforts."
Representatives for the Pentagon and Ukraine's Ministry of Defense have not immediately responded to requests for comment on these new findings.
The Washington Post report has sparked heated debate among international relations experts about whether or not this information could lead Russia's Vladimir Putin further down a path of escalation. Some argue that knowing Zelensky is considering offensive strategies may push Putin toward even more aggressive tactics against Ukraine.
Dr. Elena Petrova, an expert on contemporary Russian politics at Georgetown University remarked: "These leaks will not only enrage Putin but also undermine trust between Western allies who have been providing support for Ukraine during this crisis."
Others believe that bringing these plans out into the open might deter Moscow from taking further action if they are concerned about potential retaliation from Kyiv. As the conflict continues to escalate and with no clear end in sight, it remains to be seen how these revelations will impact the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
"It's a delicate balance," said Thompson. "On one hand, exposing these plans could make both sides more cautious; on the other hand, it might push them into a corner where they feel they have no choice but to act."
As global leaders continue to call for an end to hostilities and diplomatic resolutions are sought after, this Washington Post report serves as another reminder of just how complex and precarious the situation in Eastern Europe has become.