CIA Director Denies US Involvement in Wagner Uprising in Kremlin Phone Call, New York Times Says

CIA Director William J. Burns got an insight into Ukraine’s military strategy during a secret visit to kyiv in June. In the ambitious plan, the Ukrainians want to force Russia into new peace talks by retaking large areas of territory. It should happen before the fall, the US intelligence chief said. What does the American newspaper write The Washington Post.

Military strategists in Kiev conveyed their optimism to Burns that a significant amount of territory will be recaptured by the fall: Ukraine wants to push further into the east of the country and push the artillery to on the Crimean border to force the Russians to negotiate. So say three sources familiar with Ukraine’s military planning.

“Russia will only negotiate if it feels threatened,” said a senior Ukrainian official.

Burns’ hitherto secret trip has included meetings with President Volodymyr Zelensky and top Ukrainian intelligence officials. The visit came at a critical time in the conflict as Ukrainian forces struggle to capitalize on their long-awaited counter-offensive. But they say most of their Western-trained and equipped assault brigades have yet to be deployed. (Editorial)