A war without end? Three years of Russia-Ukraine crisis

Russia launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, expecting a quick victory. The attack began with airstrikes, missile barrages, and ground offensives from multiple fronts, including Belarus. Russian forces targeted Kyiv, Kharkiv, and southern regions, aiming to seize major cities and overthrow Ukraine’s government. (Photos: AP)

Despite being outgunned as the invasion began, Ukraine’s military and civilian defense forces mounted a fierce resistance. Russian forces were unable to capture Kyiv and faced logistical failures. By April 2022, they withdrew from northern Ukraine, including Kyiv’s suburbs—Irpin, Bucha, and Hostomel—where mass graves and evidence of war crimes were later uncovered. (Photo: AP)

As Ukraine’s resistance held, Western nations increased military aid, supplying Javelins, HIMARS rocket systems, and advanced air defenses. This support enabled Ukraine to launch counteroffensives in 2022-2023, reclaiming large parts of Kharkiv and Kherson. However, Russia fortified its positions in Donetsk, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia, creating heavily mined defensive lines. (Photo:AP)

Despite Ukrainian counterattacks, Russia managed to capture significant parts of eastern Ukraine as the war went on, particularly in Donetsk and Luhansk. Cities like Bakhmut saw prolonged battles with tens of thousands of casualties on both sides. Russia relied heavily on Wagner mercenaries and prisoner conscripts, suffering massive troop losses but maintaining control over some strategic areas. (Photo: AP)

By 2024, Ukraine ramped up its domestic arms production, especially drones and long-range missiles. While still dependent on Western aid, it began striking Russian supply lines and military targets deep inside Russia. However, shortages of ammunition and air defenses remained critical challenges. (Photo: AP)

Russia has used missiles and drone on Ukrainian cities over the years, multiple times, targeting power plants and civilian infrastructure. These strikes caused widespread blackouts and water shortages, particularly during winter. Ukraine’s improved air defense systems, including Patriot missiles, intercepted many attacks but could not prevent all destruction. (Photo: AP)

By 2025, the war has settled into a prolonged stalemate, with frontlines in Donetsk, Luhansk, and southern Ukraine remaining active. Russia continued large-scale assaults, suffering heavy losses but still making small territorial advances. Ukrainian forces struggled with exhaustion and manpower shortages, as many early war volunteers had been killed or wounded. (Photo: AP)

Donald Trump’s return to the US presidency in January 2025 introduced uncertainty for Ukraine. His administration signaled a more pro-Russia stance, suggesting that Ukraine should not join Nato and hinting at accepting Russian territorial gains. This weakened Ukraine’s negotiating position and alarmed European allies, who feared a repeat of past appeasements. (Photo: AP)

Ukraine has lost 11% of its land since 2022 and 18% since the conflict first began in 2014, according to CN report. The frontlines remain active, particularly in Donetsk, Luhansk, and along the Russian border near Kursk. While Ukraine has ramped up domestic weapons production—especially drones—it still relies heavily on military aid from the US and Europe. Meanwhile, Russia continues launching large-scale offensives, suffering heavy losses in both personnel and equipment. (Photo: AP)

The war reshaped global alliances, with Russia deepening its ties with countries like China, Iran, and North Korea. In response, Nato expanded its presence in Eastern Europe, strengthening Ukraine’s position but also heightening tensions with Moscow.

Additionally, Ukraine now faces North Korean troops deployed by Kim Jong Un in support of Russia, adding another layer of complexity to the war. With no clear resolution in sight, Ukraine braces for continued political and military struggles amid reports of corruption on frontlines. (Photo: AP)