Press review of two years of war in Ukraine: “Kiev needs more weapons”

Several high-ranking Western politicians are expected in Kiev this Saturday to mark the second anniversary of the first combat operations of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Specific names were not publicly mentioned in advance. According to officially unconfirmed media reports, those expected were, among others, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the Belgian head of government and incumbent EU Council President Alexander De Croo. There are also numerous commemorative events – even far beyond the attacked country. In Germany, for example, people want to express their solidarity with Ukraine at rallies in Berlin, Hamburg and Cologne, among other places.

President Zelenskyj continues to hope for active support

Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelenskyj continues to hope for active support for his country from the West. After signing a security agreement with Denmark, he met with a US Senate delegation in Lviv on Friday and underlined the importance of a billion-dollar aid package still pending in the House of Representatives for the effectiveness of the Ukrainian army. The fighting continues unabated even after two years.

This is how newspapers comment on the situation in Ukraine:

“De Volkskrant”: “It would be possible to corner Russia militarily in Ukraine; proposals to this effect are well known. European countries could already do much more today if they only wanted to – the fact that they are not doing it is a shame. (… ) It is not Russia’s strength, but our weakness that is the main danger – and for this Ukraine could pay a high human price, especially this year. (…) It is not too late – but let us be aware of the magnitude of the historic challenge “Is it clear that all freedom-loving countries in Europe, apart from Ukraine, are facing?”

“The Guardian”: “Since February 2022, at least 10,000 civilians and tens of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers (as well as tens of thousands of Russian soldiers) have died. An estimated 3.7 million people have been displaced within the country, and more than 6.3 million have fled abroad. Families and homes have been destroyed and lives uprooted. (…) For most Ukrainians, however, there is little choice but to fight on. Few believe that Moscow can be trusted to stick to an agreement. The bigger problem is this War weariness abroad – as strange as that may seem to Ukrainians given the ordeal they are enduring. The shock of the invasion and the admiration for Ukrainian bravery have worn off over time. The realization that there will be no easy victory, The war in the Middle East and the cost of living crisis are demanding the attention of Western leaders and reducing the willingness to provide assistance in their respective countries. (…) But what is most important is that Ukraine continues to fight despite the immense human suffering. “Europe and the US must keep their commitments to ensure Kiev gets the help it needs.”

“La Stampa”: “After two years, Ukrainians and Russians have returned to the zero point of the conflict. They have given up their goals, which were unattainable from the start, and replaced them with an empty structure. For both, victory can only mean the destruction of the enemy. And if it… When asked about a truce (but who does?), each of them responds with contempt with the overwhelming argument of Homer’s Athena: The dead don’t want him.”

“Financial Times”: “To continue the war of attrition against the resurgent Russian military, President Zelensky must take political responsibility for efforts to mobilize up to half a million Ukrainians by lowering the draft age and making it harder to avoid conscription. He will must advance the transition to an active defense strategy aimed at holding the front lines while its forces regroup for a counteroffensive in 2025, without incurring casualties that could harm their chances. (…) All This could be in vain if Ukraine’s allies do not provide Ukraine with the weapons it needs to resist Russia this year – especially air defense, artillery and drones. (…) The US Senate does have an additional $60 billion for military and economic aid to Ukraine, but the bill’s prospects in the House of Representatives remain uncertain. “Their acceptance could determine whether Kiev succeeds in pushing back Russian forces far enough to negotiate an end to the war – and to deter Putin from further attacks on Ukraine or other countries.”

“The Telegraaf”: “Ukraine is receiving an additional 50 billion euros from the EU, but an extensive aid package in the USA continues to meet with resistance from Republicans. Meanwhile, President Putin’s arms industry is running at full speed, also thanks to Iran and North Korea. The Russians want the help of these countries Produce 300,000 drones. Tehran recently delivered 400 missiles to Russia. Two years after the start of Putin’s war against Ukraine, the main focus in Western capitals is new sanctions. The death of opposition leader Navalny is being seen as an additional reason for the punishment Kremlin. But the sanctions so far have done little harm to the Russians. The rearmament continues unabated, while Ukraine lacks money.”