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Ukrainian intelligence about Russia's increasing financial problems
— I think they need a break. I think Putin is thinking about taking a break — Zelensky said in an interview with international media, quoted by the Interfax-Ukraine agency. He added that the Kremlin does not want to announce a new mobilization, fearing the public's reaction, and is therefore looking for another way out of the increasingly difficult situation.
The Ukrainian president referred to military intelligence data (HUR), according to which the real deficit of the Russian budget in 2025 exceeded USD 100 billion, while Moscow officially admits to over USD 80 billion. In 2026, the financial gap is expected to be even larger.
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Zelensky has no illusions about Russia's actions. The US has set an important deadline
Although there are signals in Russian rhetoric suggesting readiness to talk, Zelensky does not believe that the Kremlin's intentions will change.
— There have been changes in their rhetoric. But I don't believe them one bit. I think they have about the same feelings towards us as before, because they hate Ukraine – he emphasized.
The President of Ukraine recalled that it was Russia that started the war, and from its first days it was accompanied by torture, mistreatment of the civilian population and mass crimes. — They came here and started killing Ukrainians. This is hate – he added.
Volodymyr Zelensky also announced that the US authorities have set a deadline for Ukraine and Russia to end the war. The two countries are expected to reach an agreement by June this year. — If this deadline is not met, the US administration will likely put pressure on both sides Zelensky said.
