Moscow – Russia’s claim to hold the “complete strategic initiative” in Ukraine is being directly challenged by a new set of allegations from Kyiv, which suggest a war is being fought in the shadows that is far from under Moscow’s control.
President Vladimir Putin made his claim of initiative during a meeting with his military command, citing the capture of almost 5,000 square kilometers this year as definitive proof. He projected an image of a military that is advancing methodically and is in charge of the war’s destiny.
However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has introduced a narrative of Russian subterfuge that undermines this image. His accusation that Russia is using its oil tanker fleet for espionage and sabotage suggests a reliance on unconventional tactics, not just overwhelming conventional force.
Zelenskyy’s confident assertion that these operations can be stopped with the help of allies paints a picture of a resilient and adaptive Ukraine, capable of countering Russia even on non-traditional fronts.
This complex reality is further strained by Putin’s threat to the U.S. over Tomahawk missiles. His warning of a “new stage of escalation” highlights the fragility of the situation, where any move could have unpredictable and far-reaching consequences.