Preparation for a new war with Russia is underway. What should we do? - Mikhail Samus.

Regarding the situation and prospects. The points raised yesterday by representatives of the U.S. administration and Trump himself were known long before the American elections and, especially, in the subsequent period. Moreover, these parameters were cited as the most realistic framework for a potential freeze. Thus, there were no surprises or unexpected developments. Now, what comes next? This is also quite clear: Ukraine is in no way renouncing its sovereign territories (this is absolutely impossible) and is not giving up its NATO membership aspirations (this issue requires constitutional changes, which is physically hard to envision under current conditions). Furthermore, these matters (territories and our foreign policy course or domestic policy) cannot be subjects of negotiations or agreements with the aggressor state. Meanwhile, a ceasefire along the current front line is quite possible. Without additional conditions or discussions. However, there are issues that Putin will not be able to evade – the exchange of the Kursk region for Ukrainian territories (I would propose an exchange for the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant and adjacent areas) and the demilitarization of Crimea and the Black Sea (otherwise, Russia will immediately resume dominance in the Black Sea under conditions of a land freeze). Here, it is essential to work not only with the U.S. but also with the Black Sea countries, especially Turkey.

What is crucial for us in this situation is to understand that this freeze under Trump’s pressure is a period leading up to the second major Russian-Ukrainian war. This war is highly likely to occur as soon as the Trump factor disappears (and simultaneously, the Putin factor does not disappear). If we accept this, then there will be no emotional swings or burnout. Our plan is to prepare for the next war.

Consequently, the recruitment system must actively develop with a focus on motivation and military training for all citizens of Ukraine (the establishment of a Recruitment Fund is one of the issues that requires implementation), the structural framework of the Armed Forces of Ukraine must be created as quickly as possible (with a rapid promotion of a new generation of generals, officers, and sergeants), and the drone forces should develop even more intensively, while reforms in the defense industry should be conducted radically with an emphasis on private companies and initiatives. Military justice must evolve into an effective system.

Our parallel task is to finally awaken Europe. The U.S. will no longer protect Europeans from Russia. This parameter must become central in forming Europe’s security and defense system. Europeans must finally recognize Ukraine as an integral part of Europe, rather than a buffer zone, a gray area, or a bargaining chip with Russia. Specifically, Europe (alongside Ukraine) must immediately focus on building unified European Defense Forces, including strategic deterrent capabilities. European defense systems should encompass: nuclear deterrent forces, missile defense systems, and a long-range strike component (cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, strike drones). Furthermore, there must be an independent strategic intelligence capability and a command system.

There is indeed a lot of work to be done. But if this is not accomplished, Europeans will continue to stand by and ask to be included in negotiations between the U.S. and Russia. There is no need to plead – action is required.