New details have surfaced about Russia’s chilling plans for Ukraine in the event of a successful invasion.
Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, Head of Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, revealed that Moscow had prepared "kill lists" targeting influential Ukrainians.
These lists were part of a systematic strategy to eliminate figures central to Ukraine’s identity and resistance, according to Pravda.
Speaking at the Genocidal Practices of the Russian Federation in Ukraine forum, Budanov explained that the lists included teachers, veterans, clergy, and journalists.
These groups were seen as critical to maintaining Ukrainian culture and sovereignty.
Budanov emphasized that the atrocities committed in cities like Bucha, Borodianka, Hostomel, and Mariupol were not random acts of violence but part of a coordinated plan.
Russian forces, he claimed, had even been briefed on the locations of mass graves before the invasion began.
Condemned as Genocide
The war in Ukraine, now nearing its third year, has been marked by extensive civilian suffering and widespread destruction.
Russia’s invasion in February 2022 led to some of the most severe fighting in Europe since World War II. Cities such as Mariupol and Bakhmut have become symbols of both devastation and resistance.
Ukrainian forces have continued to reclaim occupied territories despite Russia’s efforts to entrench its control in the east and south.
Budanov’s revelations align with reports from early 2022. German newspaper Bild previously detailed alleged Russian plans, including the dismantling of resistance and the establishment of “camps” for dissenters.
At the time, the Kremlin dismissed these claims as propaganda. However, the evidence of mass graves and coordinated atrocities uncovered since then supports Budanov’s assertions.
Russia’s actions in Ukraine have been widely condemned as genocidal. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly called on the international community to hold Moscow accountable.
The International Criminal Court has issued warrants against Russian officials for crimes related to the war, including the forced deportation of Ukrainian children.
