While Russian public opinion polls show continued support for the war, there are questions about the polls’ reliability and indications that public approval of Putin is declining.
Liam Collins, United States Military Academy West Point
Despite having superior military forces, Russian President Vladimir Putin has found Ukrainian resistance much tougher than expected. A West Point military expert looks at the future of the war.
Artillery shelling, stressed-out technicians and power supply disruptions increase the chances of catastrophe at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Europe’s largest.
This lull before the next phase of a long attritional campaign will be a test of Ukrainian resolve, Russia’s ability to resupply, and the West’s strategic patience.
Beyond a symbolic win, reclaiming Snake Island has strategic repercussions, from the opening of a safe corridor to the diplomatic confrontation between Moscow and the west.
Liam Collins, United States Military Academy West Point
On paper, Russia’s military outmatches its Ukrainian rival. But better training, strategy and battlefield decisions have helped Ukrainian forces keep Russian troops at bay.
The sort of scenarios that might lead to the use of nuclear weapons in the Ukraine war would require a significant deterioration in Russian fortunes — and greater western involvement in the conflict.