In the ever-evolving chess game between Russia and Ukraine, the stakes are higher than ever as winter approaches. Russia is taking advantage of the shifting political dynamics in the West and the distraction caused by global conflicts to press forward in its ongoing war against Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin is hoping that relentless military pressure combined with waning Western support will force Ukraine to capitulate to Moscow's demands.
The signs of fraying Western support are evident. A much-needed aid package for Ukraine remains stalled in the U.S. Congress, with Republicans insisting on adding conditions that are opposed by Democrats. The European Union, too, failed to reach an agreement on a financial package to assist Ukraine. With mounting pressure on Ukraine and dwindling support from the West, Russia has intensified its military assaults on several fronts.
