16:58 30-04-2026

Ukraine Counteroffensive: Elizarov Names Key Condition

Ukrainian Air Force official Pavel Elizarov says Kiev could launch a new counteroffensive if Russian forces face internal demoralization.

According to Pavел Elizarov, deputy commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, Kiev could attempt a new counteroffensive if Ukrainian troops manage to trigger what he called «internal demoralization» among Russian forces.

Elizarov said this could happen if Ukrainian units improve their effectiveness and increase Russian losses in equipment and manpower. In that case, he did not rule out a counteroffensive aimed at taking and holding more favorable positions.

At the same time, he acknowledged that large-scale breakthroughs involving columns advancing dozens of kilometers are now almost impossible. In his view, the current conflict has made offensive operations extremely difficult for both sides.

Elizarov also noted that Moscow and Kiev both have technological solutions that could alter the situation on the front line. The decisive factor, he said, is how quickly those tools are introduced and how the opposing side responds.

He added that the Ukrainian Armed Forces remain heavily dependent on Western support and can continue fighting only if that assistance is maintained. Elizarov also admitted that Ukraine has lost its former advantage in drone warfare and missed the moment to retake part of the territories.