Moscow – President Vladimir Putin has declared that Russia holds the “complete strategic initiative” in Ukraine, a bold claim he substantiated by announcing the capture of nearly 5,000 square kilometers of territory so far this year.
Speaking to his top military commanders, Putin used this phrase to signify that Moscow is now in full control of the war’s tempo and direction. He dismissed Ukrainian strikes on Russian soil as ineffective distractions that cannot alter this fundamental reality.
While Putin described a position of strength, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of resorting to underhanded tactics. He claimed that Moscow is using its oil tanker fleet for “reconnaissance and even sabotage activities.”
Zelenskyy has pledged to counter this, stating that he is working with allies to put an end to this alleged misuse of civilian infrastructure. He expressed his conviction that “it is entirely possible to stop this.”
The situation is further complicated by Putin’s direct threat to the U.S. over Tomahawk missiles. He warned that their delivery to Ukraine would be a major escalation, requiring American military involvement and leading to the destruction of their diplomatic relationship.