KYIV, March 26: The war in Iran has diverted global attention from Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, now entering its fifth year and marking Europe’s largest conflict since World War II.
Over the past week, both sides intensified attacks: Russia launched nearly 1,000 drones and 34 missiles at Ukraine, while Ukraine retaliated with almost 400 drones targeting Russian regions and Crimea.
US-mediated peace efforts have stalled, as the Trump administration focuses on Iran, warning it could abandon Ukraine talks if diplomacy fails.
Russia’s economy has benefited from a temporary US waiver on oil sanctions, allowing it to sell stranded oil and generate billions in revenue, which strengthens its military campaign.
Ukraine faces shortages of advanced Patriot missile systems, as US air-defense resources are diverted to the Middle East.
Kyiv has offered its drone-interceptor technology to Gulf states in exchange for more high-end missiles.
Meanwhile, a 90 billion EU loan intended to support Ukraine’s armed forces and economy is delayed due to Hungary’s inaction.
With spring arriving, Russia is intensifying its offensive in eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region, deploying mechanized infantry and armor to assault industrial cities.
Fighting continues along the roughly 1,250-kilometer front, with Russia making incremental gains while targeting civilian areas.
Ukraine is striking oil refineries, chemical plants, ammunition depots, and logistics hubs up to 1,500 km from the frontline to disrupt Russia’s war machine.
Russia continues to insist on maximalist settlement terms and has rejected Ukrainian ceasefire offers.
Analysts note that Kyiv requires overwhelming Western military and financial support to counter further Russian advances.
With diplomacy stalled and Russian pressure increasing, Ukraine faces growing military, economic, and humanitarian challenges, while international focus remains largely absorbed by the Iran conflict. (AP)
