Bloomberg reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered an intensification of strikes on Ukraine, targeting residential areas and infrastructure, including the energy sector. The aim of these actions is to force Ukraine to capitulate on Russia’s terms.
According to the agency, this decision followed Putin’s meeting with Donald Trump in Anchorage, where he became convinced that the United States is not ready to provide significant assistance to Ukraine, opening the way for a new stage of aggression.
Experts note that even the dissemination of information about Putin’s intentions is part of Russian propaganda designed to demoralize Ukrainians. For years, Ukrainians have been living under heavy attacks, increasingly involving drones.
Russia relies not only on intensified military strikes, but also on destabilization within Ukraine: societal conflict, a rift between citizens and authorities, and undermining the capability of the armed forces. The ultimate goal is rapid occupation of large territories and their effective annexation to the Russian Federation.
Putin has previously tried to plunge Ukraine into crisis by attacking energy infrastructure, but this did not lead to collapse of the state or surrender. Ukraine receives support from the EU, and a rise in Russian attacks may push European countries to step up their assistance for their own security.
In response, Ukraine also carries out strikes on Russian infrastructure, especially the energy sector. This could significantly weaken Russia’s resources to continue the war.
Experts highlight that for Russia’s success, not only military pressure is necessary, but also effective occupation—at present, Russian advances do not allow for this. Furthermore, increased attacks push Ukraine to develop its own defense and offensive capabilities.
Western allies, even amid potential reduced U.S. support, are likely to continue helping Ukraine, recognizing the risks of expanded Russian aggression in Europe. The key to ending the war remains both in Putin’s hands and in the resolve of the Ukrainian people and their partners’ support.
