Russia Preparing for New Major Offensive, Economist Reports

Russia is preparing for a new major offensive on the battlefield, which could begin in the summer, according to The Economist. The publication assesses that Ukraine's ability to deter this is now less confident than a year ago, noting, "Ukraine cannot simply blame its allies. It is also guilty of mistakes. One of these is the failure to replenish its army with manpower. Russia is preparing for a new wave of mobilization, hoping to record the next significant success." However, attempts to recruit new soldiers in Ukraine are still entangled in the knots of the democratic process.

"Lacking funds and fearing unpopularity, President Zelensky has not made significant progress in achieving this," The Economist writes. The publication also points out that Ukraine's construction of fortifications is happening with a "considerable delay." "In some ways, this is understandable. The government still dreams of a new offensive and horrifies at the thought that the current front line could turn into something like a border that cuts off one-fifth of the country and deprives it of most of its access to the sea. The notion that this line could serve as the basis for future peace negotiations is exactly what Zelensky wants to avoid. But the danger is now so great that this is the least bad option for Ukraine. In recent weeks, excavators have started to move, and 'dragon's teeth' are already emerging. This should have begun much earlier. Pray that it is not too late," The Economist summarizes.