Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has evolved into the largest European war since World War II, but two and a half years on, many are still struggling to grasp exactly what is at stake. Instead, we continue to hear calls for some kind of compromise with the Kremlin, while the international community refuses to hold Russians accountable for their crimes.
This lack of consequences is fueling a growing sense of impunity that can be seen in Russia’s actions. On the eve of the NATO Summit in July, Russia bombed Ukraine’s largest children’s hospital in broad daylight. Empowered by the absence of any discernible international response to the 2023 destruction of Kakhovka Dam, Russia targeted Kyiv’s hydroelectric dam in late August.
Since spring 2024, Russia has destroyed more than half of Ukraine’s energy generation capacity in a clear and calculated attempt to make the country unlivable. Throughout the sweltering summer months, Ukrainians have faced rolling blackouts, with electricity often only available for several hours per day. The Kremlin is hoping things will deteriorate further during the winter season, and intends to freeze Ukrainians into submission.
Despite Russia’s extensive list of crimes in Ukraine, many international voices continue to call for negotiations. These appeals are often accompanied by arguments claiming that the war is “unwinnable” for Ukraine, or suggestions that the West can promote peace simply by ending all military support to Kyiv. Such thinking is dangerously delusional.
Voice of Ukraine 