Recently, General Valerii Zaluzhnyi has regularly reminded the public of his presence through bold statements and analytical texts. In his latest speech, he questioned the necessity of holding elections during wartime and emphasized that the current conflict is turning into a war of attrition.
Zaluzhnyi referenced the phrase “Only the dead will see the end of war,” echoing an inscription found at the London War Museum. In his view, the war in Ukraine has become a static “meat grinder” without any prospects for quick resolution. Other definitions like “deaf war” and “eternal war” also describe this chosen strategy.
The general points out that a never-ending war is not the only option. According to Russia’s plan, the aim is to exhaust Ukraine rather than fully occupy it. Alternatives such as compromise or territorial concessions are being discussed in the West, though Kyiv officially avoids them.
Zaluzhnyi stresses that the current scenario is the result of decisions by political and economic groups who benefit from prolonged conflict. He urges a rational rethinking of the war’s purpose for society, warning of the risk that people will “disconnect” from politics as they lose faith in a resolution.
He also highlights the “kill zone”—the remaining disputed region of Donbas—where conventional soldiers are unnecessary and where war should be conducted by drones alone. Official authorities do not propose practical alternatives without losses.
Recent polls show that more than 60% of Ukrainians are ready to accept partial territorial losses for peace or reconstruction. Zaluzhnyi sees this as a basis for a broader societal discussion about choosing between a protracted war and a difficult compromise.
In conclusion, he calls for questions about the meaning and duration of the war. Zaluzhnyi emphasizes that only honest, rational debate about alternatives can restore motivation and strengthen Ukraine’s chances for future peace.
