Former Russian diplomat Vyacheslav Matuzov confirmed that Moscow has no doubts that the balance of power does not favor the Ukrainian army, emphasizing that "Russian forces do not target major Ukrainian cities."

In an interview with Al Mayadeen, Matuzov emphasized that the Ukrainian army is on the brink of collapse at all levels, and Western countries are unable to provide military aid like before. He explained that all Western promises to Ukraine are false.

Matuzov also highlighted that political negotiations are ongoing, emphasizing that Russia accepts diplomatic dialogue, but he noted that circumstances have changed since April 2022.

Speaking to Al Mayadeen, the former Russian diplomat added that he believes that talks about returning to the Istanbul Agreement are “unrealistic.”

Syrsky admits deteriorating situation for Ukrainian forces

Matuzov's comments follow Ukrainian Army Commander Oleksandr Syrsky's admission that the situation has notably deteriorated for Ukrainian forces on the Eastern Front. He highlighted that this decline is primarily attributed to "Moscow's escalation of attacks following the presidential elections," which took place last March.

When discussing the progress of military operations, Syrsky explained that Russian forces are actively targeting Ukrainian positions in Liman and Bakhmut, employing attack groups supported by armored vehicles.

"The enemy is actively attacking our positions in the Lyman and Bakhmut sectors with assault groups supported by armored vehicles. In the Pokrovsk sector, they are trying to break through our defense using dozens of tanks and armored personnel carriers," Syrsky stressed, noting that Russia is "stepping up its efforts by deploying new armored units, which periodically achieves tactical success.

Last month, he revealed "a significant intensification of the enemy's offensive after the presidential elections in Russia," and said current decisions were meant "to strengthen the most problematic defense areas with electronic warfare and air defense".