We are far from the end of the war - former NAF commander

RIGA - Currently, it is still far from the end of the war started by Russia against Ukraine, the former commander of the National Armed Forces (NBS) and the commander of the Latvian Air Force Juris Maklakovs expressed in an interview with Latvian Television this morning.

The expert emphasized that the end of the war basically depends on Russia, when its regime starts to falter internally, but currently there are no such signs.

In general, Russia's actions show that it is not going to end hostilities - it has mobilized, a decision has been made to increase the army, and there is talk of increasing the military industry. Winter warfare will see drones used more and attacks being directed at Ukraine's critical infrastructure.

At the same time, it is noticeable that Russia is beginning to recognize its difficulties in the hostilities it started, noted Maklakovs, while emphasizing that Russia still expresses readiness to talk about ending the war only on its own terms.

In Maklakovs' assessment, the involvement of Belarus in active hostilities is still very questionable, as it would completely destroy the foundations of Alexander Lukashenko's power, as the people of Belarus do not support direct involvement in war.

The expert emphasized that Ukraine has been able to operate very successfully in the war and is ready to continue fighting, while the West has been able to consolidate and actively support Ukraine to win this war.