In early 2025, rumors were circulating that Russia’s summer offensive would be the “decisive” battle of the entire war. Some analysts were convinced that Ukraine was already close to collapse. In fact, even Russian dictator Vladimir Putin claimed at the time that “there is reason to believe that we can finish off” the Ukrainian troops. However, all the Russian army got was a total failure on the battlefield.
Points of attention
- Key strategic targets remain in the hands of Ukraine, highlighting their resilience and ability to defend their territory against Russian incursions.
- Supporting Ukraine and recognizing Putin's bluffing tactics can pave the way for diplomatic negotiations and a possible resolution to the conflict.
Ukraine has proven that it still has the strength to defeat Russia
The Atlantic Council publication draws attention to the fact that during the last campaign, the Russian army was unable to break through the front line or capture at least one major Ukrainian city.
Moreover, it is indicated that the total advance of the occupiers over the 3 summer months was limited to 0.3% of the territory of Ukraine.
It is important to note that key strategic targets, such as Pokrovsk, remain in the hands of Ukraine, the article says.
One cannot also ignore the fact that the Kremlin's ambitious plans to expand its influence in the Sumy and Kharkiv regions also proved futile.
Not long ago, the Russian dictator brazenly claimed that "all of Ukraine is ours" and threatened the capture of Sumy.
But as the summer ended, his troops found themselves trapped in several border villages while attempting to retreat after a series of military setbacks, the journalists noted.
All these events indicate that Putin is simply bluffing, and his army does not have enough strength and resources for new serious victories.
If the Ukrainians receive the necessary support from their allies, recent evidence suggests that they are more than capable of turning the tide of events on the battlefield in their favor and forcing Putin to the negotiating table.
