Ex-CIA director General Petraeus discusses war and US support during visit to American University Kyiv

During a recent interview at American University Kyiv (AUK), former CIA Director General David Petraeus emphasized the critical role of US and Western support in Ukraine's fight against Russia.

In an exclusive interview with Rubryka, Petraeus highlighted how continued aid will shape the war's outcome and Ukraine's ability to resist Russian aggression.

Petraeus, who has been a key donor to AUK, stressed the importance of ongoing US assistance, noting that the recent $61 billion aid package to Ukraine is larger than the defense budget of any European country.

"This is not a US war. The idea that we're fighting an endless war is wrong," he clarified. "The Ukrainians are fighting a tough, hard war against a barbaric enemy that denies Ukraine's very right to exist as an independent state and believes it should be part of the Russian Federation."

Petraeus also praised Ukraine's innovative use of technology in the war effort, particularly the development of drones that have played a pivotal role in disrupting Russian operations.

"The role that technology has played for Ukraine has been jaw-dropping," Petraeus remarked, highlighting Ukraine's success in sinking a third of the Russian Black Sea fleet using domestically built air and maritime drones.

He acknowledged that Russia's manpower advantage remains a challenge but pointed to Ukraine's ability to adapt, citing new conscription laws and efforts to recruit, train, and equip more soldiers. Despite these challenges, Petraeus remains optimistic, praising Ukraine's resilience and the determination of its people.

"It's Ukrainians who are fighting and shedding blood for their country, not Americans," he said.

Looking ahead, Petraeus warned that the war's course will depend on several factors, including continued Western support, Russia's alliances with countries like North Korea and Iran, and Russia's economic ability to sustain the fight.

"There are a number of factors, but clearly some are more important than others, and they all bear careful watching in the months ahead," he concluded.