Russia’s Operational Design & Strategic Objectives (2022-2026)

Russia’s strategic objectives in Ukraine, extending through 2026 and beyond, are shaped by a complex interplay of military failures, economic realities, and political considerations. Initially focused on a rapid “special military operation” aimed at regime change in Kyiv, Russia's early efforts failed to achieve this objective, leading to a shift towards consolidating control over the Donbas region and establishing defensive lines along key fronts.

Russia’s initial offensive, spearheaded by units like the 4th Russian Army Corps and supported by Wagner Group mercenaries, aimed for a swift capture of Kyiv. However, fierce Ukrainian resistance, logistical challenges, and significant Western military aid stalled this advance. By late 2022, Russia had refocused on seizing full control of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts (Donetsk and Luhansk regions) – the stated goals of the “special operation.” The subsequent battles around Bakhmut and Avdiivka highlighted Russia’s willingness to commit substantial manpower, resulting in significant casualties. Estimates suggest over 280,000 Russian personnel have been killed or wounded since February 2022.

**Phase 2: Consolidation & Defensive Posture (2023-2026)**

Looking ahead, Russia’s operational priorities are likely to remain focused on consolidating its gains in the Donbas and establishing a robust defensive perimeter along the border with Ukraine. This includes further fortification of existing lines, potentially utilizing advanced weaponry supplied by Iran. The Kremlin is expected to continue employing asymmetric warfare tactics – including drone attacks and cyber operations – targeting Ukrainian infrastructure and logistics. Economic pressures stemming from Western sanctions are anticipated to constrain Russia’s long-term military capabilities, potentially delaying modernization efforts. While a major offensive push remains unlikely, persistent attrition of Ukrainian forces and continued support from the West will be critical factors in determining the outcome of this protracted conflict.

The Evolving Battlefield – Urban Warfare and Asymmetric Threats

The conflict’s trajectory has demonstrably shifted, with a pronounced emphasis on urban warfare and the proliferation of asymmetric threats within Ukraine. Following initial offensives focused on territorial gains, Russian forces have increasingly concentrated efforts on degrading Ukrainian infrastructure and consolidating control over key cities like Kharkiv and Kherson. Since late September 2022, tactical groups from the 76th Combined Arms Centre (Tactical Group “Rukh”) have been heavily involved in urban operations, utilizing techniques emphasizing close-quarters combat and exploiting vulnerabilities within built environments.

The Urban Battlefield: A Prolonged Struggle

The battle for Bakhmut, culminating in its fall to Wagner Group in May 2023, showcased the brutal effectiveness of prolonged urban engagements. Estimates suggest over 100,000 Russian soldiers were committed to the assault, resulting in staggering casualties on both sides – Ukrainian losses are believed to be upwards of 70% of those involved. Current operations around Avdiivka mirror these tactics, with Russian forces attempting to encircle and overwhelm Ukrainian defensive positions through a combination of artillery bombardments and infantry assaults.

Asymmetric Threats: A Shifting Landscape

Beyond conventional warfare, Ukraine is facing an escalating challenge from asymmetric threats. The continued presence and activity of DNR/LNR separatist groups, supported – albeit inconsistently – by Russian forces, destabilizes the operational environment. Furthermore, reports indicate increased drone attacks originating from Russia and Belarus targeting critical infrastructure (including power grids and fuel depots) - a deliberate strategy to weaken Ukraine’s ability to sustain its war effort. Analysis suggests that the Ukrainian military is adapting with specialized urban combat training and deploying advanced reconnaissance assets to counter these evolving threats, but sustaining this adaptation remains a significant challenge.

Supply Chain Vulnerabilities & Logistics Analysis

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has exposed critical vulnerabilities within its supply chains, impacting not only military operations but also potentially influencing global trade dynamics. Analyzing the logistical challenges highlights a complex web of dependencies and disruptions.

**Russia’s Reliance on External Components:** Despite efforts to bolster domestic production, Russia relies heavily on imports for specialized components used in weaponry, electronics, and even civilian vehicles – including those produced by Hyundai Motaurs in Ukraine before 2022. Reports from late February 2023 indicated significant shortages of microelectronics impacting the production of missiles and drones, attributed to sanctions-induced supply chain disruptions. The Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) has publicly acknowledged these challenges, citing difficulties procuring components for systems like the Su-57 fighter jet due to limited availability of semiconductors globally and issues accessing critical parts through international channels.

**Ukraine’s Countermeasures & Strain:** Simultaneously, Ukraine's efforts to disrupt Russian logistics have placed immense strain on its own supply chains. The destruction of infrastructure – including ports and roads – by missile strikes has severely hampered the ability to receive Western aid efficiently, with significant delays reported in the delivery of military equipment and supplies. Estimates suggest that as of March 2023, approximately 40% of Ukrainian-controlled territory remains inaccessible due to ongoing fighting and damage, creating bottlenecks for both humanitarian and military logistics. The initial reliance on Black Sea ports for grain exports was effectively neutralized by the Russian naval blockade initiated in February 2022, forcing a shift to rail transport – a less efficient and more vulnerable system.

**Global Implications:** These localized disruptions have broader implications. The increased demand for transportation services (rail, road) within Ukraine has created inflationary pressures within Eastern Europe, and the redirection of trade routes via land corridors raises concerns regarding security and potential vulnerabilities in regional supply chains. Further analysis will be needed to fully quantify the long-term economic impacts stemming from these logistical deficiencies.

Information Warfare Campaigns & Disinformation Tactics

The 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine has become a focal point for extensive and sophisticated information warfare operations, going far beyond traditional military conflict. Analyzing the tactics employed reveals a multi-layered approach designed to undermine Ukrainian public opinion, sow discord within Western alliances, and justify Russia’s actions to its own population.

Initial Russian efforts focused on spreading false narratives about alleged Ukrainian attacks on civilians and infrastructure, using tactics reminiscent of those used in the 2014 annexation of Crimea. Kremlin-linked media outlets, including RT and Sputnik, disseminated fabricated stories about “genocide” committed by Ukraine, often targeting Western audiences via social media platforms like Telegram and YouTube – with over 35 million views on state-sponsored content. Statistics from NATO allies revealed a 270% increase in disinformation spread compared to 2021. Units like the GRU’s 186th Separate Electronic Warfare Brigade played a crucial role, disrupting Ukrainian communications while simultaneously amplifying pro-Kremlin narratives. The use of troll farms and coordinated bot networks was widespread, with estimates suggesting over 30,000 bots actively engaged in spreading disinformation.

**Evolving Tactics – 2023-2026 (Projected)**

Recent intelligence suggests a shift towards more targeted disinformation campaigns, leveraging deepfakes and synthetic media to create highly believable but entirely fabricated scenarios. Analysis by the US Department of Defense indicates Russia is investing heavily in developing advanced AI tools for generating propaganda at scale. Furthermore, there's evidence of coordinated influence operations targeting Ukrainian diaspora communities in Europe, aiming to erode support for Kyiv. The ongoing conflict has also highlighted vulnerabilities within Ukraine’s own information ecosystem, with Russian actors exploiting existing divisions and amplifying misinformation through compromised media outlets and social networks. Expect continued escalation of these tactics, with a greater emphasis on psychological warfare designed to demoralize the Ukrainian population and weaken Western resolve.

Deterrence Posture & Potential Escalation Scenarios

The Ukrainian government’s current deterrence posture, largely reliant on NATO support and asymmetrical warfare tactics, faces increasing scrutiny regarding its long-term effectiveness and potential for escalation. While initial resistance demonstrated a robust defensive capability – evidenced by the sustained defense of Kyiv from February 2022 through March 2022, supported by units like the Ukrainian Ground Forces’ 93rd Brigade – shifting dynamics demand a more nuanced analysis.

Russia's tactical adjustments, particularly since late 2023 with intensified operations around Avdiivka and Vuhledar involving units of the Russian Eastern Group of Troops, demonstrates a shift towards attrition warfare and attempts to achieve incremental gains. Intelligence estimates suggest Russia is prioritizing resource expenditure to degrade Ukrainian forces and disrupt supply lines, aiming for strategic advantage rather than outright victory. Recent data from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) indicates that while Ukraine has successfully repelled Russian advances in many areas, the intensity of fighting and associated casualties – exceeding 30,000 Ukrainian military personnel since January 2024 alone – presents a significant strain on Ukrainian resources.

Furthermore, Russia’s continued use of long-range precision weapons (LRPM), such as Kalibr missiles targeting infrastructure, represents an escalation in tactics and poses a direct threat to civilian populations and critical national assets. The deployment of Iranian drones, facilitated by Syria, adds another layer of complexity and necessitates heightened vigilance regarding potential breaches of international airspace and increased risks to Ukrainian air defenses. NATO’s commitment remains crucial, but prolonged engagement without demonstrable strategic gains for Ukraine could inadvertently embolden further Russian aggression or lead to miscalculation on either side. Continued monitoring of Russian operational patterns and proactive diplomatic efforts are paramount to preventing escalation and ensuring the stability of the Eastern European security architecture.

Geopolitical Ramifications: Regional Instability & Great Power Competition

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is fundamentally reshaping European security architecture and intensifying great power competition, particularly between Russia and NATO. Since February 2022, the conflict has exposed significant vulnerabilities within existing defense frameworks and accelerated a shift towards bolstering collective security arrangements. The initial Russian strategy, predicated on rapid advances toward Kyiv, failed to achieve its objectives, but unleashed a cascade of consequences including widespread destruction, displacement of millions, and a hardening of Western resolve.

Russia’s military actions have directly challenged NATO's eastern flank, with sustained attacks against critical infrastructure in Ukraine – notably the December 2023 strikes on Odesa targeting port facilities – demonstrating an escalation beyond purely territorial ambitions. The Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF), bolstered by significant Western aid including over 76,000 anti-tank munitions and nearly 8,000 armored vehicles from countries like the United States and the UK, have mounted a surprisingly effective defense, delaying Russian advances and inflicting heavy casualties – estimated at over 350,000 personnel killed or wounded.

NATO’s response has been largely unified, with increased military deployments to Eastern European member states such as Poland and Romania, alongside substantial financial support for Ukraine amounting to nearly $60 billion in military assistance. Furthermore, NATO's Article 5 collective defense clause has been invoked indirectly through the alliance’s unwavering support of Ukraine, effectively positioning NATO directly against Russia. The ongoing situation presents a complex geopolitical landscape characterized by heightened tensions and risks of miscalculation, demanding continued vigilance and strategic engagement from all involved parties.

FAQ

Question 1: What are the key factors driving Russia’s strategic objectives in Ukraine beyond simply “liberating” Donbas?

Answer text… Russia's actions stem from a multi-layered strategy. Primarily, it’s about preventing NATO expansion and securing Ukraine as a buffer zone against Western influence. Secondly, there's a desire to restore perceived historical greatness and demonstrate Russia’s strength on the global stage – effectively a power projection exercise. Finally, controlling key transportation routes and resources within Ukraine remains strategically vital for Russia’s long-term security and economic interests. The conflict isn’t just about territory; it’s about regional dominance.

Question 2: Can you assess the current tactical situation in eastern Ukraine? What are the critical points of contention for both sides?

Answer text… Tactically, the war is largely defined by a grinding artillery battle around key towns like Avdiivka and Bakhmut. Russia’s focus has shifted to attempting breakthroughs, often with heavy losses, while Ukrainian forces prioritize defensive consolidation and attrition. Critically, Ukraine's continued supply of Western weaponry – particularly HIMARS - remains a decisive factor, allowing them to disrupt Russian logistics and attack command nodes. The frontlines are incredibly fluid, influenced by weather conditions and shifts in troop deployments, presenting significant challenges for both sides.

Question 3: What is the significance of the ongoing war in terms of broader geopolitical trends – specifically regarding NATO expansion and the potential for escalation?

Answer text… The Ukraine War has fundamentally reshaped European security architecture. It's accelerated NATO’s enlargement with Finland and significantly increased Sweden's push for membership, prompting a renewed focus on collective defense. Simultaneously, it has heightened tensions between Russia and the West, leading to increased military deployments and rhetoric. While outright escalation remains unlikely – due to mutually assured destruction – the risk of miscalculation or proxy conflicts in other regions is undeniably elevated.

Question 4: Historically, how do previous Russian-Ukrainian conflicts (Crimea 2014, Donbas conflict) inform our understanding of current events?

Answer text… The 2014 annexation of Crimea and the subsequent support for separatists in Donbas established a long-standing grievance within Russia, fueled by perceived Western encroachment and historical narratives. This context is crucial to understanding Putin’s justification for intervention in 2022 – framing it as a “special military operation” to protect Russian speakers and “de-Nazify” Ukraine. The patterns of disinformation campaigns, hybrid warfare tactics, and the exploitation of ethnic divisions have also been recurring themes throughout Russia's relationship with Ukraine.

Question 5: What are the potential long-term strategic implications for Ukraine – considering factors like economic recovery, political stability, and its future relationship with the West?

Answer text… Ukraine’s path forward is fraught with challenges. Rebuilding a devastated economy requires massive international investment and addressing corruption. Maintaining political stability amid ongoing conflict and internal divisions will be paramount. Ukraine's alignment with the EU remains a key objective but navigating this process while securing continued Western support – particularly military assistance – is crucial. The long-term security of Ukraine hinges on sustained Western commitment and its ability to strengthen its own defense capabilities.

Question 6: What role are cyber warfare operations playing in the conflict, and how might they evolve in the coming years?

Answer text… Cyberattacks have been a consistent feature of the war, targeting Ukrainian infrastructure (power grids, government systems) and attempting to disrupt communications. Russia’s cyber capabilities represent a significant asymmetric threat, allowing them to inflict damage without traditional kinetic attacks. Looking ahead, we can expect an escalation in sophistication – potentially including attacks on Western critical infrastructure and more targeted disinformation campaigns designed to sow discord within NATO allies. The integration of AI into cyber warfare is also likely to accelerate.

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**Disclaimer:** *This FAQ provides a general overview based on publicly available information as of today's date (26 October 2023). The situation in Ukraine is incredibly dynamic and subject to rapid change. Continuously updated analysis from reputable sources is essential for informed understanding.*

Sources

1. **The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) – [https://www.understandingukraine.org/](https://www.understandingukraine.org/)** - ISW provides daily, near real-time assessments of Russian military activities, Ukrainian operations, and geopolitical developments in Ukraine. They are widely considered a leading source for independent battlefield analysis and strategic assessment.

2. **Ukrainian Armed Forces Official Channels (Telegram & Website) – [https://www.facebook.com/UkraineNowNews](https://www.facebook.com/UkraineNowNews)** - Direct communications from the Ukrainian military, offering insights into operational challenges, defensive strategies, and territorial gains. *Note: Verification of information is crucial when relying solely on these sources.*

3. **Reuters & Associated Press (AP) – [https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ukraine](https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ukraine) & [https://apnews.com/hub/ukraine-war](https://apnews.com/hub/ukraine-war)** - Major international news organizations providing continuous coverage of the conflict, including reporting on military movements, diplomatic efforts, humanitarian crises, and political developments. They generally maintain high standards for journalistic verification (though biases can exist).

4. **NATO Official Statements & Reports – [https://www.nato.int/](https://www.nato.int/)** - Provides information on NATO’s support to Ukraine, its strategic assessments of the conflict's implications, and analyses of Russian military capabilities. Useful for understanding the broader geopolitical context.

5. **The Brookings Institution – [https://www.brookings.edu/ukraine-policy](https://www.brookings.edu/ukraine-policy)** - A non-profit public policy organization that publishes in-depth reports and analysis on various aspects of the war, including its economic impact, security implications, and potential pathways to resolution.

6. **Reuters & Associated Press (AP) – [https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ukraine](https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ukraine)** - Major international news organizations providing continuous coverage of the conflict, including reporting on military movements, diplomatic efforts, humanitarian crises, and political developments. They generally maintain high standards for journalistic verification (though biases can exist).

7. **United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) – [https://www.unhcr.org/ukraine-emergency.html](https://www.unhcr.org/ukraine-emergency.html)** - Provides crucial data and reports on the humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict, including displacement figures, refugee assistance efforts, and assessments of needs. *Important for understanding the human cost of the war.*

**Disclaimer:** *This is a snapshot in time (October 26th, 2023) – The information landscape surrounding the Ukraine War is constantly evolving. It's crucial to critically evaluate all sources, consider potential biases, and cross-reference information from multiple reputable outlets.*

The Shifting Sands: NATO’s Enlargement and Eastern Flank Vulnerability

The rapid expansion of NATO following Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022 dramatically reshaped the strategic landscape surrounding Ukraine, simultaneously bolstering defensive capabilities on the alliance’s eastern flank while exacerbating tensions with Moscow. Prior to the invasion, Finland formally applied for NATO membership on May 18th, 2022, followed by Sweden's application on June 7th, though Turkish objections have stalled Swedish accession. This expansion has fundamentally altered the operational environment for forces like the Polish Border Guard and elements of the Lithuanian and Latvian Rapid Reaction Corps deployed along the northern border.

Increased Vulnerability & Response Measures

While NATO’s Article 5 collective defense commitment remains a deterrent, the addition of Finland – a nation with a significant industrial base and robust military, including approximately 20,000 personnel within the Immediate Reserve – has undeniably increased the potential for prolonged conflict in the Baltic Sea region. Russia's strategic focus shifted to targeting NATO supply lines and potentially exploiting vulnerabilities along this eastern flank. The deployment of Russian tactical nuclear forces towards the border with Finland further underscored Moscow’s intent. NATO responded by reinforcing its Battlegroup Lithuania (comprising approximately 5,000 troops from several nations) and increasing air patrols within the Baltic region. This dynamic highlights a continuous reassessment of threat levels and necessitates ongoing adaptation of defensive postures across the alliance.

The Role of Western Arms Transfers – Effectiveness and Limitations

Western arms transfers have been a cornerstone of Ukraine’s defense against Russia since February 2022, dramatically altering the battlefield dynamics. Initial deliveries, primarily from the United States, focused on Javelin anti-tank missiles (over 6,000 received by late 2023) and Stinger MANPADS (approximately 1,500), proving highly effective in disrupting Russian armored formations like the 79th Motorized Rifle Division’s advances around Kyiv. However, the scale of these transfers has presented both significant effectiveness and notable limitations.

Impact on Operational Success

The provision of high-mobility infantry fighting vehicles (such as M2 Bradley) by the US and other platforms – including Leopard 2 tanks from European nations – provided Ukrainian forces with increased firepower and maneuverability, contributing directly to the counteroffensive operations beginning in late 2023. Data suggests a correlation between the arrival of these heavier systems and incremental gains, particularly around Vuhledar.

Limitations and Challenges

Despite their impact, Western arms transfers face limitations. The pace of deliveries remains a critical bottleneck, often constrained by production delays (particularly for artillery ammunition) and logistical challenges. Furthermore, Russia has adapted to Ukrainian tactics, utilizing electronic warfare to degrade the effectiveness of supplied systems like Bradleys. The sheer volume of equipment necessitates extensive training and maintenance support, placing a strain on Western capabilities, and reports of damaged or lost Western-supplied equipment highlight vulnerabilities in Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. Finally, reliance on coalition supply chains creates potential points of disruption.

Geopolitical Realignments – China, Turkey, and the New Axis of Influence

The Ukraine War is fostering a significant geopolitical realignment, with China and Turkey emerging as key actors shaping a new axis of influence distinct from traditional Western alliances. Beijing’s sustained economic support for Moscow, including over $60 billion in trade and investment by late 2023 – largely facilitated through the New Development Bank – has demonstrably bolstered Russia's warfighting capabilities, evidenced by increased procurement of advanced weaponry like Javelin anti-tank missiles from China’s Type 99A tanks.

Turkey’s Strategic Ambiguity

Turkey’s position remains particularly complex. Despite NATO membership, Ankara continues to purchase Russian S-400 air defense systems and maintain robust military cooperation with Russia, including logistical support provided by the 31st Mechanized Brigade operating in Crimea. Furthermore, Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar Makina has supplied TB2 drones – crucial for Ukrainian operations during the counteroffensive – significantly impacting battlefield dynamics.

A Rising Sino-Turkish Partnership

The convergence of Chinese and Turkish interests appears increasingly pronounced. China’s diplomatic efforts to mediate a resolution, coupled with Turkey’s role as a key transit route for Russian grain exports following the Black Sea Grain Initiative collapse, solidifies this alignment. Analysts predict continued expansion of bilateral trade and collaboration in defense technology, potentially creating an alternative security architecture challenging Western dominance in the region by 2026.

The Ukraine War: A Current Analysis (2022-2026)

The Russia-Ukraine war, initiated by a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, remains the most significant geopolitical crisis since World War II. While initial hopes for a swift Russian victory faded rapidly, the conflict has evolved into a protracted struggle characterized by intense fighting, shifting frontlines, and devastating consequences for Ukraine and global stability. This analysis will focus on key developments and potential trajectories through 2026.

* **Initial Invasion & Early Russian Advances:** Russia launched a multi-pronged invasion in February 2022, aiming for the rapid capture of Kyiv and regime change. Initial advances were achieved, but Ukrainian resistance, bolstered by Western military aid, slowed the momentum considerably.

* **Ukrainian Counteroffensives (2022 & 2023):** Beginning with the successful defense of Kyiv, Ukraine launched counteroffensives in the summer and fall of 2022, liberating significant territory in the Kharkiv region and later, with Western supplied tanks, in the south around Kherson.

* **Protracted Stalemate (2023):** Following a major Ukrainian push towards Melitopol in the spring of 2023, the conflict settled into a brutal stalemate along a relatively stable front line across southern Ukraine. Intense artillery duels and drone warfare continued, with Russia attempting localized offensives.

* **Wagner Group’s Role:** The Wagner mercenary group played a crucial role in early battles and later seized control of Soledar and Bakhmut - costly gains for Russia that significantly depleted their forces. Their eventual mutiny in 2023 dramatically altered the conflict dynamics.

**Potential Trajectories (2024-2026):**

* **Attrition Warfare:** The most likely scenario remains a protracted period of attrition warfare. Both sides are suffering heavy casualties and equipment losses, suggesting neither side is capable of delivering a decisive victory through conventional means.

* **Continued Western Support - with caveats:** Western support for Ukraine will remain critical, but its level of commitment is likely to fluctuate based on domestic political considerations in the US and Europe. There's increasing debate about the long-term cost and potential for escalation. A significant shift in European public opinion towards demilitarization could impact this support.

* **Increased Use of Long-Range Weapons:** Both sides are expected to continue deploying longer-range weapons systems, such as Storm Shadow missiles (supplied by UK and France) and potentially hypersonic glide vehicles from Russia, which could significantly alter the battlefield.

* **Potential for Negotiated Settlement - Difficult & Unlikely in 2024/2025:** While a negotiated settlement remains desirable to end the bloodshed, reaching one is highly unlikely in the immediate future. Key sticking points – including territorial demands, security guarantees for Ukraine, and Russia's reparations – are deeply entrenched. However, as the war drags on, fatigue may eventually force both sides to consider compromise.

* **Risk of Escalation:** The risk of escalation remains a constant concern, particularly if either side takes actions perceived as crossing a red line (e.g., attacks within NATO territory).

**New Sections Added:**

**1. Economic Impact & Reconstruction Challenges:** The war has inflicted massive economic damage on Ukraine, with infrastructure destroyed and its economy shattered. Reconstruction efforts will require hundreds of billions of dollars in aid – primarily from the West – but logistical challenges (damaged roads, rail lines, etc.) and security concerns will significantly slow progress. Corruption within Ukraine also represents a major obstacle to effective reconstruction. Estimates predict that rebuilding Ukraine could take upwards of 10-20 years at current levels of investment.

**2. Information Warfare & Propaganda:** Both Russia and Ukraine are engaged in sophisticated information warfare campaigns, attempting to shape public opinion domestically and internationally. Deepfakes, disinformation, and coordinated propaganda efforts are becoming increasingly prevalent, making it difficult for the public to discern truth from falsehood. The role of social media platforms in amplifying these narratives is a key concern.

**3. Geopolitical Implications & NATO Expansion:** The war has fundamentally altered the European security landscape. Finland’s accession to NATO represents a major strategic shift and strengthens the alliance's eastern flank. The conflict has also prompted discussions about strengthening NATO’s collective defense capabilities and addressing vulnerabilities within the alliance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q1: What are Ukraine’s main military objectives?**