Russian President Vladimir Putin has failed to achieve the key military and political goals he set before launching a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, according to the Financial Times, which analyzed the course of the war and its consequences for the Kremlin.
The article notes that the Russian leadership counted on a quick victory, based on the false assumption that Russia would be supported by a significant part of Ukrainian society. According to the Kremlin's plan, the military campaign was to be completed within a few days, but the war turned into a long and exhausting conflict.
Journalists point out that instead of weakening the West, Russia got the opposite result. After the invasion began, NATO strengthened its presence in Europe, and Finland's accession to the Alliance almost doubled the length of the border between Russia and the bloc's countries.
The publication also draws attention to the significant losses of the Russian army and the political risks that have arisen for the Kremlin due to the prolongation of the war. According to the authors, Putin has become so involved in the conflict that it is becoming increasingly difficult for him to agree to compromise terms to end the war.
The publication notes that even a potentially favorable political situation in the United States for Moscow does not guarantee a change in the situation, since prolonging the war could undermine any diplomatic opportunities.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has previously said there is a chance to bring the war to an end by the fall. He said the political "window of opportunity" before the US midterm elections could be an important factor.
Analysts agree that the further course of the war will depend on the military dynamics on the front, the level of international support for Ukraine, and the readiness of the parties for real negotiations.
