Ukrainian and Russian soldiers continue to doggedly fight for every square meter of frontline land in Ukraine. The war quickly escalates, told against the backdrop of escalating global geopolitical tensions. Apart from the human toll, the ongoing conflict has led to colossal territorial devastation, including in places like Chasiv Yar in Donetsk Oblast. We are currently entering a crucial moment marked by heavy military clashes and vigorous diplomatic efforts.
This brings us to the recent statements from Donald Trump that have set Washington aflutter and drawn cries for more military assistance to Ukraine. On July 14, he proposed that if NATO allies would pay for the overstocked supplies, the United States would increase its assistance. According to advocates, this assertion represents a radical shift in U.S. foreign policy. Yet rather than enter this battle decisively, Trump has decided to play a long game of delaying his actions strategically.
At the G20 leaders summit in Osaka, Japan on June 28, 2019, Trump had another closed meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This meeting came at a time when both countries sought to stabilize their increasingly fragile connection. They’re doing this against the backdrop of the unprovoked war in Ukraine. Ukraine has made numerous concessions in negotiations, going so far as to agree to cede Russian-occupied territories in exchange for NATO membership. The Kremlin has spurned these overtures.
Ukraine is still a country under profound internal stresses. On July 23, 2025, thousands of Ukrainians took to the streets of Kyiv, protesting the government’s controversial attempt to undermine the independence of two anti-corruption agencies to appease Moscow. Amid growing discontent regarding ongoing martial law and the absence of elections, Ukrainian leadership under President Volodymyr Zelenskyy feels pressure to consolidate power internally.
“Kyiv, meanwhile, is using this interlude to recalibrate internally. The recent government reshuffle … underscores the Zelenskyy administration’s intent to reinforce political control and preserve cohesion in the face of mounting pessimism, institutional inertia, and an intensifying labour crisis.” – Tatiana Stanovaya
As Ukraine and Russia return to the negotiating table, many analysts believe that there is no real willingness on Russia’s part to pursue a peaceful resolution. One possibility, the Kremlin appears to hope, is that the United States has no coherent approach to arming and backing Ukraine. Yet, they are attempting to apply pressure on Russia.
“The Kremlin is generally banking on the fact that the United States under Trump is incapable of a systematic policy of supporting Ukraine and putting pressure on Russia.” – Mykola Bielieskov
An extension of the talks has put the spotlight on Russia to show its commitment to a ceasefire and a peaceful resolution with Ukraine by September 2. If it continues to refuse to play ball, it risks losing all benefits reserved for co-operating parties and secondary tariffs of up to 100%. The impact of these sanctions on Russia’s economy is potentially devastating. It risks alienating other large developing countries, notably India and China, which have been benefiting from cut-price Russian oil and gas.
“Serious secondary sanctions require a willingness to quarrel with China and India, which buy raw materials from Russia.” – [No specific name mentioned]
The situation remains precarious. The continued fighting has raised alarm bells among Western policymakers, who fear for Ukraine’s domestic path. Tackling graft remains a cornerstone of Ukraine’s EU integration ambitions. This aim becomes increasingly essential as leaders map out a future marked by rising instability.
“Similarly, when it comes to weapons, the speed and volume of supplies here and now matter. Therefore, there are many known unknowns. And I think Russia may believe that the U.S. will not dare to impose secondary sanctions on Russia’s trading partners.” – [No specific name mentioned]
Ukraine continues to grapple with many challenges. Externally, it faces down relentless Russian aggression, but internally, political instability threatens. The international community is paying attention. The coming months may be the most important in determining Ukraine’s future. They will have historic repercussions for European security and international relations.