As the large-scale war initiated by Russia against Ukraine enters a new harsh winter, it is increasingly difficult for Kiev’s Western allies to limit the escalation of violence.
In an editorial, The Washington Post asserts that any attempt to reduce tensions with Russia must be conducted from a position of strength. According to the publication, Moscow is constantly seeking the vulnerabilities of its adversaries, and the Kremlin is currently perceiving hesitations from the West.
The American newspaper argues that this perception will not change until Ukraine’s allies send a stronger message.
According to The Washington Post, each new Russian escalation should result in increased pressure on Moscow. Attacks on Ukrainian cities should lead to additional measures against Russia, and Russian attacks or operations in Europe should be followed by stronger European support for Ukraine.
The possibility of a de-escalation, the publication maintains, should remain open, but only on the basis of reciprocal measures.
Russia increases pressure on Ukraine and Europe
WP asserts that, in the context of difficulties on the battlefield, Russia is intensifying its actions in two directions.
The first targets the cities and infrastructure of Ukraine. According to the Washington Post, Moscow hopes that attacks on civilians will affect Ukraine’s ability to continue the war and will produce the result that Russia has failed to achieve through conventional military operations.
The second direction is represented by what European states describe as Russian hybrid activities. Russian intelligence services have been associated by European authorities with acts of sabotage and other clandestine operations aimed at weakening support for Ukraine.
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