The operation demonstrates Ukraine’s ability to achieve surprise and exploit sudden breakthroughs, something at which Russia has consistently failed since the start of its invasion.
It is also the first time Russia has been invaded by foreign troops since World War II, showing Russians in no uncertain terms that the bloody war they unleashed against their neighbor has come home.
One speculation that has gained a lot of traction is that it could lead to a quicker end to the war.
The operation makes it clear to Russian President Vladimir Putin that Ukraine retains significant potential to inflict pain on Russia.
Major substantive issues aside, with the Kremlin apparently back-channeling openness to talks, Kyiv risked being seen as intransigent in preventing an early end to the war.
Finally, Ukraine’s strategic position is risky, even if it holds back Russia and maintains the flow of Western weapons.
But for Ukrainians and their Western supporters hoping for an end to the war, some intriguing possibilities may soon be on the table. »
