Ukraine’s commanders: “If it means losing ground, I don’t want the war to end”

Three Ukrainian military commanders have spoken to DN about President Zelenskyy’s latest decisions, the current state of the war, and what they hope for in the months ahead. Their views paint a stark picture of the front lines—and of the difficult choices facing Kyiv. “If ending the war means we lose territory, then I do not want it to end,” one commander said. He added that his troops are exhausted but still determined to hold their positions. Another commander warned that any pause in fighting could give Russian forces time to regroup and strike harder later. A third said morale among soldiers depends heavily on Western military aid arriving on time. The commanders did not criticize Zelenskyy directly, but their comments reflect growing unease over any future peace talks. They stressed that Ukrainian soldiers are not fighting only for land, but for the country’s ability to survive as an independent state. All three agreed that the next few months will be decisive—and that the biggest risk now is not the enemy, but uncertainty from allies. Their statements come as international pressure builds for negotiations. Yet on the ground, the commanders say, the reality is simple: a bad deal now could mean a longer war later.