As the Russia-Ukraine war enters its 366th day, the situation remains tense and complex. Diplomatic efforts have been underway to bring an end to the conflict, with the United Nations General Assembly passing a non-binding resolution calling for Russia to end hostilities and withdraw from Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed confidence in his country’s victory over invading Russian forces, while Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu has accused the West of using Ukraine to try to break up Russia. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has warned China against supplying arms to Russia, while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez visited Kyiv in a show of solidarity.
In terms of weapons, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has said the West will continue to support Ukraine for as long as necessary, but it would not be “clever” for Ukraine to use the weapons it receives to mount attacks on Russian territory. Meanwhile, President Vladimir Putin has announced that the delayed Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile will be deployed this year. Spain may increase the number of Leopard 2A4 tanks it will send to Ukraine to 10, while Finland is sending three Leopard 2 battle tanks.
Fighting continues in the region, with three ambulance workers killed by Ukrainian shelling in the Russian-controlled city of Donetsk. Moldova has dismissed claims by Russia’s defence ministry that Ukraine planned to invade the breakaway region of Transnistria, and instead called for calm.
As the conflict enters its second year, it is clear that diplomatic and military efforts are needed to bring an end to the war. The international community must continue to work together to ensure that a lasting peace can be achieved in the region.