Lack of Western support escalates situation on the frontline ahead of Russian offensive
Details
A critical period is possible for Ukraine ahead of Russia's anticipated large-scale offensive this summer. Russia's success in breaking through defensive lines could be exacerbated by continued ammunition shortages.
ISW analysts emphasize that timely and adequate support from the West is key to Ukraine's ability to defend its territory and resist new Russian attacks soon. At the moment, despite the Ukrainian military's efforts to slow the advance of Russian troops, the shortage of military equipment and ammunition caused by the delay in Western assistance leaves the front line critically vulnerable.
According to the report, the Russian military may try to intensify its attacks in the spring, before the onset of difficult weather conditions, to take advantage of the current state of Ukrainian defenses. While the specific goals of the Russian summer offensive remain uncertain, it is clear that any success in the coming weeks could be a starting point for further operations.
Despite the challenges, the Ukrainian military has demonstrated its ability to deter Russian attacks, giving reason for optimism about its ability to further strengthen its defenses. However, the lack of new funding from the U.S. Congress, including the unapproved $60 billion aid package, as well as insufficient munitions production by partners, increases the risk of Russian reinforcement in the coming months.
Memorial to the fallen Moldovan soldiers of the Transnistrian War in Chisinau. Photo: Alexander Moisseenko
Thirty-three years ago, a ceasefire brought an end to the Transnistrian War—sometimes described by locals as the Russian-Moldovan War. Although the tensions officially ended in 1992, its consequences continue to shape Moldovan politics, society, and security — especially in view of the upcoming parliamentary elections.
Finland is moving to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention, which bans anti-personnel mines. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo said the decision comes as a direct response to growing aggression from Russia.
The ruling Georgian Dream party has approved a set of controversial laws, including a “foreign agent” act aimed at NGOs and media. Critics say it mimics the U.S. FARA but is weaponized against dissent.
We regret to inform you that due to lack of funding we are forced to discontinue the English version of our website. This decision was not easy for us, as we have always strived to provide quality and timely information for our international audience and Russian-speaking readers. Unfortunately, the current financial realities leave us no other choice.
The Russian-language version of the site will continue to operate, but in a limited mode. We understand that this will create inconvenience for many of our readers, and we apologize for possible interruptions in the provision of news and analytical materials on this resource.
We appeal to you, our loyal readers, with a request to support our editorial staff. Your help will allow us to continue our work and provide you with important and relevant news. Please go to the support page and make your contribution to the development of independent journalism.
We thank you for your understanding and look forward to your support during this difficult time.
The Russian capital faced one of the largest terrorist attacks in its history. The terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall, which claimed the lives of many innocent people, was the second largest after the Beslan tragedy. But unlike previous attacks, this incident is shrouded in a layer of contradictory facts and ambiguities that point to possible miscalculations by the Russian security services