Ukrainian Armed Forces Commander Oleksandr Syrskyi met with Lieutenant General Curtis Buzzard, head of NATO’s Security Assistance and Training Mission for Ukraine (NSATU) and the Security Assistance Group for Ukraine (SAG-U). The meeting focused on the current operational situation at the front lines.
Syrskyi emphasized the need for Ukraine to seize the strategic initiative, stating, “We are conducting an active defense. This allows us to exhaust the enemy, restore our positions, and inflict maximum losses. Our main goal is to make every step the enemy takes as costly as possible, using intelligence and technology where manpower and equipment are lacking.”
The discussion also highlighted the pressing needs of the Ukrainian military, particularly the enhancement of air defense capabilities. Syrskyi noted that “without control of the skies, it is impossible to guarantee safety on the ground.”
In recognition of Buzzard’s unwavering support for Ukraine, Syrskyi presented him with the honorary badge “Steel Cross.” He expressed gratitude for Buzzard’s leadership and significant contributions to strengthening the defense forces’ capabilities.
Syrskyi reiterated that bolstering the combat capabilities of the Ukrainian military is a vital tool for deterring aggression, preserving civilian lives, and moving closer to a just peace. Earlier, he shared with NATO colleagues the effectiveness of the “active defense tactics,” which he claimed helps exhaust the enemy and restore positions while inflicting maximum losses.
Ukrainian Commander Oleksandr Syrskyi met with NATO's Curtis Buzzard to discuss defense strategies, emphasizing the need for enhanced air defense and active tactics. Syrskyi's remarks underline Ukraine's commitment to exhausting enemy resources and ensuring national security.