Ukrainian forces have been facing heavy losses in the eastern Donbass region and are retreating, raising concerns about the collapse of the front line. A survey released by independent polling agency Rating showed that only 45% of Ukrainians believe their country can regain its pre-2014 territory, a significant decrease from a year ago when 74% had the same belief. The failure of recent counteroffensive campaigns has left many Ukrainians feeling pessimistic, especially in areas controlled by Russia.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in the loss of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers, millions of displaced civilians, and a struggling economy. There are worries about the stability of financial and military aid from the West, even though new weapons from the US may be on the way. Moscow has been targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, leading to power outages and economic challenges.
Despite these challenges, some Ukrainians maintain hope amidst daily shelling. For example, Mykola Akhbash from Pokrovsk believes that Ukraine can regain its lost territories if it continues to fight with determination and perseverance. However, foreign observers like Nikolay Mitrokhin believe that Crimea’s return to Ukraine is unrealistic given Russia’s strategic investments in the region.
The situation in Donbass is also bleak for Ukraine as it struggles to make significant advances against Russian forces shifting strategies and receiving military support from the West. The prospects for regaining control over these territories seem increasingly unlikely as only 7% of survey participants believe in this scenario. Despite these obstacles, some still hold onto hope for a different outcome in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
