On February 24, Ukrainian forces reported significant combat losses inflicted on Russian troops, marking approximately 868,230 personnel casualties since the beginning of the conflict. According to the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces, the recent 24-hour period alone saw the destruction of 1,050 Russian soldiers. The cumulative losses amassed from February 24, 2022, to February 24, 2025, include various military assets such as 10,177 tanks, 21,157 armored vehicles, and 23,626 artillery systems.
This data reaffirms the severe strain Russian military resources are currently facing, as evidenced by reports from the Pokrovsk direction, where there is rising evidence of Russian troops intentionally disabling their equipment to avoid combat. Such actions signal growing desperation among Russian soldiers as the year progresses.
At the same time, U.S. National Security Advisor under Donald Trump, Mike Waltz, asserted during interviews, as reported by CNN, the U.S. is committed to NATO agreements but distinguishes the issue of Ukraine's membership as separate. “This is not being discussed,” Waltz stated emphatically, conveying the U.S. stance against pushing for Ukraine’s NATO accession. Instead, the focus is on extending security guarantees for Ukraine through partnerships with countries like the United Kingdom and France. Waltz also indicated expectations for European nations to take more active roles in supporting Ukraine.
These statements followed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s remarks expressing readiness to resign if it led to NATO membership, highlighting the political delicate situation Ukraine faces amid growing external pressures.
During the "Support Ukraine" summit, Zelensky emphasized the need to fight for peace rather than expect it as an unwarranted gift. He underlined the complexity of achieving lasting peace, stating, "Putin will not hand over this peace. We must attain it with strength, wisdom, and collective cooperation.” Zelensky urged clarity about what constitutes reliable and lasting peace, which must go beyond mere silence on the front lines. He recounted Russia's breaches of ceasefire agreements since 2014, illustrating his arguments with evidence presented to U.S. President Joe Biden's administration.
The summit convened world leaders to commemorate the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, marking the urgency of sustained and collaborative international support for Ukraine.
Reflecting on the negotiations between Washington and Moscow, Michael McFaul, former U.S. Ambassador to Russia, criticized the current strategy adopted by the U.S. He warned against falling for Kremlin tactics aiming to extract concessions from Ukraine without offering anything substantial. “Until now, discussions have centered on demands solely from Ukraine, requiring them to make territorial compromises and even conduct elections prior to negotiations,” McFaul remarked, shedding light on the unbalanced negotiation dynamic. He advised Washington to avoid making concessions at the start of discussions, arguing it only empowers the Kremlin’s position.
McFaul also spoke about the seasoned experience of Russian diplomats, contrasting it sharply with the relatively inexperienced U.S. negotiation team. He noted the Kremlin's strategy of making maximum demands, waiting for the other side to negotiate from a position of compromise.
Back home, the sentiment among the Ukrainian populace remains steadfast against negotiations led by the U.S. and Russia without their involvement, reflecting the nation's strong desire for sovereignty and security. A reported 91% of Ukrainians oppose any discussions about ending the war without their participation, emphasizing the need for Ukraine to be at the forefront of any peace talks.
The international community's involvement continues to play a pivotal role as Ukraine battles to navigate the turbulent and dangerous waters of war, diplomacy, and aspirations for peace.