Ukraine Faces Years-Long Fight to Reclaim Occupied Territories, Experts Warn
NEW YORK – Despite Russia‘s military shortcomings and economic pressures, Ukraine could require years to fully reclaim territories currently under Russian occupation, according to assessments from defense analysts. The protracted conflict stems from Russia’s entrenched defensive positions and its ability to conduct joint operations with its army, making any offensive operation exceptionally difficult, explained defense expert Michael Jones.
While acknowledging the significant challenges, Peter Doran of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies believes Ukraine is capable of regaining its territory with sustained, full support from the United States and NATO. “To break the stalemate,Ukraine needs sustained military support,and Russia’s economy needs a blow from the US and Europe,” Doran stated,referencing ongoing discussions regarding secondary sanctions against Moscow. “With all this support, Ukraine’s prospects of winning back its territory is high.”
However,a successful Ukrainian counteroffensive carries the risk of escalation. Experts note the potential for the Kremlin to retaliate by threatening the use of its nuclear arsenal, a tactic considered in the fall of 2022 when Russian forces were retreating from Crimea, according to Jones.
The possibility of Ukraine reclaiming its land is already causing concern in Moscow. Former President Donald Trump, after speaking with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky this week, asserted that Kyiv is poised to “win all of Ukraine back” with continued US and European backing. “[vladimir] Putin and Russia are in BIG Economic trouble, and this is the time for Ukraine to act,” Trump added. “Let [Ukraine] get their land back.”
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed Trump’s claims Wednesday, maintaining Russia’s economic stability and characterizing the russian army as a “bear,” rejecting the “paper tiger” label. Peskov indicated that, in light of Trump’s remarks, Russia sees “no alternative” but to continue its invasion, effectively ruling out a near-term cease-fire agreement.
