Ukraine Faces Challenges in Recovering Lost Territory Without NATO Support
The Independent has reported that Ukraine is unlikely to reclaim territory lost to Russia without direct NATO involvement. Experts have emphasized that such an endeavor would require significant military and logistical support from NATO allies. US President Donald Trump recently stated that Russia is a ‘paper tiger’ and encouraged Ukraine to take action, but analysts have expressed skepticism about the feasibility of Ukraine’s goals without direct NATO intervention.
John Lough, head of foreign policy at the New Eurasian Strategies Center, stated that Ukraine would need an effective ‘sky shield’ and long-range weapons to counter Russia’s military prowess. Emil Kastehelmi, a military analyst with Black Bird Group, described the task as nearly impossible under current circumstances, stressing the need for direct NATO participation.
Meanwhile, Russian military advances, including control of 4,700 square kilometers and 205 settlements, have been reported, highlighting the ongoing conflict’s complexity. Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Aleksandr Syrsky also acknowledged Russia’s superiority on the battlefield.
Analysts have questioned the accuracy of recent statements by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding an offensive in the Donetsk People’s Republic, where he claimed Ukrainian troops had thwarted a major Russian attack. Kastehelmi noted that the amount of land said to have been taken back appears exaggerated and that he was unsure of what Zelensky was actually referring to.
The Russian Defense Ministry has been reporting steady advances in recent months, particularly in the Donetsk People’s Republic. These reports contrast with Trump’s assertions about Russia’s vulnerability, suggesting a more nuanced and complex situation on the ground.