Ukraine’s counteroffensive could kick off this summer - PM

The head of government spoke with The Hill ahead of his visit to the United States, Ukrinform reports.

"In an exclusive interview with The Hill, Shmyhal stated that the counteroffensive could take place already in the summer, noting that the greatest pressure to start the counteroffensive comes from within (Ukrainian society - ed.) Ukraine," the publication notes.

The prime minister also noted that authorities in Kyiv feel no pressure coming from partners regarding when it is better to start active combat operations to regain territory.

“All of our friends and partners do comprehend clearly that in order to go into counteroffensive, one must be 100 percent, and even more percent prepared to do so,” PM Shmyhal said.

At the same time, it is noted that Shmyhal's visit to Washington is taking place against the background of a large-scale intelligence leak, which included purported assessments of the U.S. Department of Defense regarding the situation of Ukraine.

When asked how the leak could affect the planning of Ukraine's counteroffensive, Shmyhal firmly emphasized that Ukraine would liberate its lands anyway.

“We have proven multiple times that we can do it. From our international partners we ask for more military capabilities, like tanks, ammunition, planes, armored vehicles,” he replied.

He also confirmed that Ukraine was really experiencing losses in terms of economy and in terms of human lives, "and these losses indeed exercise a heavy toll” on the nation. However, according to him, "it doesn’t mean that we do not have bravery left or inspiration left or forces left.”

Shmyhal's mission in Washington is part of the Ukrainian war strategy, the publication notes. While combat preparations are underway, the prime minister is tasked with rallying partner nations to provide economic support that is as key to Ukraine's survival as its military defense.

As reported, Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal paid a one-day visit to Canada on Tuesday. During his stay in Washington, he is scheduled to participate in the spring meetings of the IMF and World Bank. In addition, he is expected to hold meetings with U.S. government officials.