Russian Intensifies Attacks on Ukraine
As rumors of a potential ceasefire negotiation swirl, with reports emerging that The Vatican has offered to host talks between the warring parties, our investigative team has taken a closer look at the situation on the ground. Despite whispers of a possible peace deal, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine rages on, with both sides suffering heavy losses.
In a significant development, Russian President Vladimir Putin made his first visit to Kursk Oblast since Ukrainian forces were pushed back in March. The region, in the west of Russia, was occupied by Ukrainian troops for several months before Russian forces attempted to reclaim the area. It is currently contested between the two states as Russia tries to finish repelling the Ukrainian attack across the region. Putin's visit comes as a clear indication that Russia is committed to maintaining control over the territory, as well as trying to diminish Ukraine's position in and negotiations.
Since Putin's visit, the conflict continues to escalate, with Russia launching barrages of artillery shelling against Ukrainian territory, particularly in the Kherson region. According to the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Russian aviation has also carried out airstrikes on multiple locations.
Ukraine is employing a multi-faceted approach to counter Russian aggression, utilizing aviation, anti-aircraft missiles, electronic warfare and unmanned systems units to repel attacks. Ukrainian military efforts have been crucial in holding back the relentless Russian advance. However, in light of Russia's overwhelming numerical advantage the situation remains difficult.
Ukraine isn't only defending against Russia, but is also taking the fight to them, making strong use of drones. These have caused problems for the Kremlin as airports have been forced to close in the capital, Moscow. Drones have also targeted factories that are used to fuel Russia's war, such as a semi-conductor plant in Oryal Oblast, that makes parts for war planes and missiles.
Furthermore, Russia continues to cover up it's true losses in terms of military casualties in the conflict. With minimal training, resources and depleted morale, Russian soldiers are continually thrown into so-called 'meat assaults' in vain attempts to gain small amounts of territory. For Russia, at the negotiating table, every piece of ground helps with regards to bolstering their position.
Witnesses on the ground describe ill-prepared Russian troops moving like zombies, suffering with the effects of war, malnourishment and lack of leadership in the field. Recent reporting from the Ukraine shows that in the last two months alone, around 61,000 casualties have been incurred whilst trying to capture Ukrainian territory.
As the conflict continues to take a devastating toll on human lives, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has emphasized the need for international support. In a conversation with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Zelensky stressed that the engagement of major powers, including France, Germany, the UK, Italy and the US, is crucial in bringing an end to the war.
As the world watches, our investigative team will continue to provide in-depth coverage of the conflict, spreading light on the human cost of the war and the efforts being made to bring it to an end. With the situation on the ground remaining fluid and unpredictable, one thing is clear: the conflict between Russia and Ukraine is far from over.