Ukrainian incursions into Russian home territory, alongside reports of Russian troop desertion and exposed vulnerabilities, have reassured Ukrainian soldiers and their Western allies. In response, however, Russia launched a string of large-scale missile barrages against key Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, and hit vital Ukrainian energy, water and utility targets. The renewed ferocity of fighting on both sides has raised the stakes in what is already Europe’s largest war since World War II.

Watch the above video as Straight Arrow News contributor Peter Zeihan reviews recent developments in the Russia-Ukraine war and explains why these developments signal a new phase in the war.

The following is an excerpt from Peter’s Aug. 26 “Zeihan on Geopolitics” newsletter:

There are lots of moving parts in the Ukraine war right now, so let’s do a little recap of everything that’s going on. There are four big ones…

First up is the Ukrainian offensive in Kursk. One of my recent videos covered this in more detail, but essentially the Ukrainians have poked into Russian territory and caused significant Russian casualties, destroyed a number of bridges, and cut off key supply lines. They are also bringing some heavy artillery and equipment along with them that will impact the front lines.

Next, the Ukrainians sunk Russia’s last rail ferry. This was a critical piece of transport for the Russians and was one of the few things keeping their supply lines to Crimea open. This is a big win for Ukraine as it will weaken Russia’s position in the Crimean front.

Third is the destruction of a major fuel depot in Russia. A Ukrainian attack set about a third of the storage tanks ablaze at a depot in the Proletarsk district. This fire is still spreading and could cause major setbacks for the Russian forces in Crimea that depend upon this fuel.

Last is the Russian assault on Pokrovsk. While the Ukrainians are seeing big wins across many fronts, they are facing heavy pressure from the Russians in the city of Pokrovsk in the Donbas. The Russians are seeking control of this nexus city, as it would complicate Ukrainian supply lines in the region. Like I said, lots of moving parts… but that means there’s a potential for significant changes. So, stay tuned for further updates.