Gen. Budanov for Defence24: "Russia will try to drive a wedge between Poland and Ukraine"

The head of the Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine (Ukrainian: Holovne upravlinnia rozvidky Ministerstva oborony Ukrainy, HUR) is an extremely busy man, even in times of peace. That is why an opportunity to speak with the head of this institution, Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, mere days before the third anniversary of Russia’s full scale invasion of Ukraine, is of great value.

We asked the military official about peace negotiations, Ukraine’s cooperation with Europe and the United States, and, most importantly, the relations between Warsaw and Kyiv – both today and in the coming years.

Peace in Ukraine and the issue of Poland

Bartłomiej Wypartowicz: What is your stance on peace negotiations conducted without Ukraine’s direct involvement? Do you believe such talks could lead to a lasting and just resolution of the conflict?

Lt. Gen. Kyrylo Budanov: Final and meaningful negotiations between warring countries are impossible without the participation of all the parties involved in the conflict.

In my opinion, Europe should also be engaged in the negotiations. How does Ukraine plan to strengthen the cooperation with European allies such as Poland to safeguard its interests in the peace process?

From the very first days of the war, Poland has provided Ukraine with maximum support. We will always remember this and remain grateful to the Polish people and the leaders of the Polish state. As neighbors, the security issues of our region automatically concern both Poland and Ukraine. This is our shared responsibility. Therefore, we hope for the continued development and deepening of close cooperation with the Republic of Poland.

Russia has always attempted, and will continue to attempt, to drive a wedge into our relations, but we trust in the wisdom of our nations and governments. We share a great and glorious history. Russia has always been our opponent and often even our enemy. And together, we have defeated it many times – even capturing Moscow once.

Are new forms of alliances and strategic partnerships being considered?

New challenges always require new approaches to solving them. Since we share common borders, we will always strive to deepen our cooperation. Perhaps, over time, this will evolve into something greater. Currently, the global security system and architecture are undergoing an extremely difficult test. Our task is to make alliances more effective and stronger.

Let’s return to the topic of potential peace negotiations and their consequences. What are the forecasts regarding the continued military and political support for Ukraine from the U.S. and Europe? Is there a risk of reduced Western engagement?

Let’s be honest – without the U.S., it will be very difficult for us. We must do everything possible to maintain their support for Ukraine. As a well-known Ukrainian proverb says, „one warrior in the field is no warrior” (Ukr. один в полі не воїн). That is my answer regarding the United States. Additionally, this cooperation is clearly bilateral and mutually beneficial.

As for Europe, one cannot imagine the global security of the European continent without Ukraine. Nor can it be imagined without our heroic army, currently the largest in Europe, battle-hardened in the largest war since World War II.

With this in mind, what are the key areas in which Poland can assist Ukraine in the near future?

First and foremost, in the military-technical sphere, where we already have extensive and diverse cooperation that should only be fostered, not limited in any way.

Secondly, in economic cooperation. Together, we have significant potential. In peacetime, many successful joint enterprises were established, and many large projects were implemented. Therefore we have a solid foundation for future collaboration.

Additionally, Poland has extensive experience in implementing successful reforms, and we will be grateful to our Polish partners for sharing this experience, particularly in industrial production, attracting foreign investments, as well as revitalizing and rebuilding the economy as a whole.

Poland has always been an advocate for Ukraine in its path to NATO and the EU. We still count heavily on its support.

So Poland’s diplomatic role during this challenging period is appreciated by Ukraine?

As I said – Poland has actively supported us from the very beginning, and I hope this will continue. Poland is one of the few countries that fully understands what it means to live under Russian occupation and has a significant voice in global diplomacy. That is why we are grateful to Poland for its support, and the task of both our nations is to continue strengthening the mutually beneficial cooperation in international diplomacy.

Unfortunately, tensions may arise. What steps should be taken to maintain harmonious relations between Ukraine and Poland in the long run?

First and foremost, I believe that we must stop fighting the ghosts of the past. The past is what it is. It must be accepted, common solutions or assessments should be found, and we must move forward.

Some countries, primarily the Russian Federation, will continue trying to sow discord between our nations by exploiting historical differences and manipulating them through their special services. Our shared history should strengthen us.

Can we guarantee that the strategic partnership between Poland and Ukraine will endure after the war?

Joint projects already exist and are functioning effectively. As I have mentioned, we have the will and intentions to deepen and expand them. However, we cannot openly discuss most of these projects at this time.

Polish support is not only governmental and military assistance but also includes volunteers and humanitarian efforts. Do social initiatives, the volunteer movement, and support for Ukrainian refugees in Poland have an impact on Ukrainian-Polish relations?

Of course they do. The mutual interaction of our civil societies allows us to feel solidarity and gratitude for the help provided.

However, in light of ongoing Russian aggression in the region, security is also crucial. What actions can Ukraine take to support Poland in this regard?

Ukraine will always remember the helping hand extended by Poland in our most difficult moment. I am sure that if needed, Ukraine will reciprocate just as strongly.

Every Russian tank destroyed by the Ukrainians is a tank that will not go to war against Poland and Europe.

As you mentioned, Poland and Ukraine are already cooperating in security matters. Given the growing threats, mutual support and strategic cooperation are essential. What can our countries do to strengthen the security of Central and Eastern Europe more effectively?

Absolutely. We can talk about developing the concept of the Baltic-Black Sea corridor and various initiatives within the Three Seas Initiative. All of this concerns not only our region but also global security. New times bring new challenges, and we must respond appropriately to these challenges.

Thank you for the conversation.

Thank you.