As the Russia-Ukraine conflict marks its third anniversary, the world watches closely to see if peace is finally within reach. Since the outbreak on February 24, 2022, the war has caused immense human suffering, with hundreds of thousands of casualties and millions displaced.
Recent shifts in U.S. policy suggest a potential change in the international stance, moving from unwavering support for Ukraine to seeking a swift resolution to the conflict, even if it comes at Ukraine's expense. This pivot raises questions about the future dynamics of the region.
On the battlefield, Russian forces have achieved significant territorial gains. Colonel General Sergei Rudsky, first deputy chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, announced that around 75% of the Donetsk region, along with parts of Zaporizhia and Kherson, has been liberated from Ukrainian control. In the Lugansk region, Ukrainian forces now hold less than 1% of the area.
The conflict escalated recently when Russia launched over 200 drones in a single overnight attack on Ukraine, described by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as \"the largest of the war.\" Zelenskyy condemned the assault and called for unity among Ukraine's allies in response.
Meanwhile, tensions have risen due to developments involving U.S. President Donald Trump. A controversial U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal, Trump's criticism of Zelenskyy as \"a dictator without elections,\" and peace talks in Riyadh conducted without Ukraine and the European Union's participation have all contributed to unease among Ukraine and its European partners.
In a surprising move, Zelenskyy expressed a willingness to step down if it would lead to peace. \"If peace for Ukraine requires me to leave my post, I am ready,\" he stated during a press conference on Sunday. However, the implications of this proposal remain unclear, especially considering the conflict's extensive impact on global energy and food supplies and the strain it continues to place on European economies.
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Russia-Ukraine conflict three years on: Is the dawn of peace in sight?
cgtn.com
