The Head of the Defence Ministry's Main Intelligence Directorate, Kyrylo Budanov, told Forbes Ukraine that Russia wants to reach the administrative borders of Donetsk and Luhansk regions by 31 March.
"The great Russian offensive they are aiming for is already happening. But it is taking place in such a way that hardly anyone observes it, that's the level of the offensive. They have a strategic objective - to reach the administrative borders of Donetsk and Luhansk regions by 31 March... This is what they are dreaming about, but they will not be able to do it," Budanov said.
He drew attention to a radical change in the Russians' goals: from "Kyiv in three days" to "reaching some borders someday."
Budanov believes that after the liberation of the territories, it will be necessary to create a multi-kilometre security zone on the border with Russia. He also believes that the decisive battles in the war will take place from mid- to late spring of this year.
In mid-February, Ukrainian military intelligence reported that the Russians were trying to thwart Ukraine's upcoming counteroffensive. That is why the enemy is in a hurry and attacking in Donbas.