Russian dictator Vladimir Putin continues to believe in victory, having an advantage in people and equipment. This is reported by columnist Mark Urban in his piece for The Times.
According to Urban, both sides of the conflict are not ready to accept peace terms, as they believe it is necessary to continue the fight. For Ukraine, this is a battle for national survival and the political existence of President Zelensky, while Putin seeks to succeed at any cost, having begun the war as a conflict over his elections.
This summer, the Kremlin was putting enormous efforts into breaking through Ukrainian defenses, which resulted in huge losses among Russian forces. Ukraine, despite smaller losses, also faces problems with desertion and mobilization.
Russia plans to recruit a large number of volunteers, while Ukraine is strengthening mobilization but has issues attracting enough fighters. Meanwhile, the campaign of long-range strikes continues from both sides, with improvements in Ukrainian technologies and Russian drone raids.
The USA and other countries continue to exert economic pressure on Russia through sanctions, making the situation more difficult for Putin. However, the Russian leader believes in victory and continues his campaign.
Urban emphasizes that, despite some successes for Ukraine and problems for Russia, Putin believes he has a strategic advantage and seeks to achieve his goal without limitations.
Columnist Mark Urban examined the complex situation on the front between Ukraine and Russia, where both sides continue to fight to achieve their goals. Russia plans to recruit additional volunteers, Ukraine strengthens mobilization, and the USA and other countries continue pressure on the Kremlin. Despite this, Putin is confident in his strategic advantage and tries to achieve victory, despite the complications.