For Ukraine’s population, this is the hardest stretch of the war

(David Kirichenko – Lowy The Interpreter) As Russia’s war in Ukraine enters its fifth year, Moscow is still fighting for incremental gains in the Donbas, while the Russian economy shows signs of strain. GDP is contracting, oil prices remain depressed, and the federal budget recorded a $22.3 billion deficit in January, nearly half of its full year target. And the Kremlin continues weaponising peace talks. With Donald Trump pressing for a peace deal by June, both Moscow and Kyiv are keen to project good faith participation in negotiations. For the Kremlin, sustaining that perception carries strategic value. – For Ukraine’s population, this is the hardest stretch of the war | Lowy Institute