Senior diplomats and security officials from over 30 countries gathered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia for a summit for peace aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. However, with Russia choosing not to participate, the prospects of a settlement remain slim. As tensions between the two nations escalate, Ukraine is resorting to unconventional tactics to strike back at Russia.
In an attempt to liberate their occupied lands, Ukraine has launched a major offensive. However, the well-fortified Russian military has resulted in high casualty rates for Ukrainian forces. Frustrated by the lack of progress, Ukraine has now turned to alternative methods to inflict damage on Russia.
One such strategy employed by the Ukrainians is the use of drone attacks on buildings in Moscow. Over the past two weeks, four such attacks have taken place. The objective is twofold: to discredit the Russian authorities, who appear powerless to prevent these attacks, and to bring the war to the Russian heartland. Notably, these drone attacks have targeted the affluent office and residential areas of the Russian capital, aiming to impact those Russians who have been least affected by the ongoing conflict.
Ukrainian military planners have long argued that until the Russian population begins to experience the consequences of the war, Russian President Vladimir Putin will feel no pressure to halt his invasion of Ukraine. The drone attacks are an attempt to change this dynamic and increase the pressure on Russia.
Additionally, Ukraine has introduced naval drones as another military innovation. These unmanned vehicles were recently utilized in an attack on the road bridge connecting Russia with Ukraine’s Crimea peninsula, which is currently under Russian control. Furthermore, a prominent Russian warship was hit near the Russian port city of Novorossiysk, deep inside Russian territory. These naval drone strikes showcase Ukraine’s determination to strike at the heart of Russia’s military infrastructure.
As tensions continue to rise and both sides search for an advantage, the chances of a peaceful settlement diminish. The Ukrainian offensive, coupled with the use of drones and naval strikes, represents a significant shift in strategy. However, without Russia’s participation in the Saudi-hosted talks, a resolution seems unlikely.
The conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, and the use of unconventional tactics highlights the determination of both nations to secure their interests. As the situation unfolds, international observers watch with growing concern, hoping for a peaceful resolution to this protracted conflict. But for now, the war rages on, and the prospects of a ceasefire or settlement appear distant.
