Ukraine is increasing both military and political pressure simultaneously to revive the stalled diplomatic process with Russia. In early June, during the economic forum in St. Petersburg, Ukrainian long-range drones targeted energy facilities around the city and the Russian naval base in Kronstadt. At the same time, Volodymyr Zelenskiy sent an open letter to Vladimir Putin, shifting the agenda in Kiev’s favor before the Kremlin’s press conference.
The report notes that these moves are not isolated steps but the first signs of a broader summer military-diplomatic campaign. Political and diplomatic circles in Kiev believe the actions taken during this period aim to push Moscow to realize that avoiding serious negotiations is no longer an option.
Why Did the Diplomatic Channel Stall?
According to the Ukrainian side, the previously active dialogue with the US has effectively slowed down. Contacts renewed at the beginning of the year by the updated Ukrainian delegation, which had advanced to a more progressive stage, stalled when it reached the level of leaders’ meetings. Kiev believes Washington’s role has shifted from a clear ally to a more facilitative position.
Ukrainian officials argue that the US acting merely as a messenger between the two sides is insufficient. According to Kiev, Washington needs to adopt a stance that asserts its power at the table, keeps the parties within the same framework, and advances the negotiations.
Which Areas Is Ukraine Focusing on the Ground?
The report explains that in recent months, Ukraine has been trying to seize the initiative in certain areas by targeting Russian defense industry, energy infrastructure, and oil-gas sectors with long-range strikes. At the same time, technological advantages on the front lines have been expanded.
Within this framework, the increase in Starlink-based communications and medium-range drone production has created a significant advantage for Ukraine. According to the text, this capability has become one of the main factors enhancing mobility on the battlefield.
Another Ukrainian objective is to increase logistical pressure around Crimea. The report states that by gradually cutting military, transportation, and energy lines, the peninsula and the Russian military group in the south could be pushed into more difficult conditions. If this scenario fully materializes, an operational drone blockade could emerge without a large-scale ground offensive.
A Second Front Established Through Letters
It is noted that Zelenskiy has sent letters not only to Putin but also to Washington, Berlin, and Brussels. These letters are part of Ukraine’s effort to make its agenda more visible internationally.
The report compares this method to the function of video messages during the early stages of the war. The letters aim to mobilize international public opinion and compel parties to respond within the framework defined by Ukraine.
The Ukrainian side believes that the information and perception pressure on Moscow was also felt during the May 9 discussions. The current goal is to turn this tactical advantage into a more lasting diplomatic benefit.
The Expected Role of the US and Europe
According to the report, Kiev is displeased with Washington’s recent shift of focus to the Middle East and Iran issues. The Ukrainian side views the long absence of the American delegation as a result of this change in priorities.
Therefore, it is noted that Zelenskiy has called on European capitals to apply more active pressure in recent talks. During contacts in London and subsequent regional meetings, the message was conveyed that Europe should participate more in a joint pressure line against Putin.
The text clearly outlines Ukraine’s goal: to bring the US back to the negotiation table and make Europe a more effective part of the pressure mechanism. Kiev believes that if these two lines work together, the Kremlin may be forced to consider a different negotiation approach before the end of summer.
