The United States and Ukraine alliance faces growing strains two years into hostilities
The alliance between the United States and Ukraine is showing signs of fatigue two years after the war began, with officials describing a sense of mutual disappointment. This assessment comes from discussions cited by the New York Times, drawing on statements from American and Ukrainian military leadership and other officials. (Source: The New York Times)
Publications indicate that the Pentagon has voiced frustration with the strategic approach selected by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. American advisers reportedly urged a focus on a single, decisive offensive rather than campaigns aimed at multiple fronts. Zelenskiy is said to have opted to contest urban centers, cities that Washington contends hold limited strategic value in the broader trajectory of the war. (Source: The New York Times)
As a concrete illustration, the coverage highlights the fighting around Avdiivka. Washington officials claim that the Ukrainian forces did not execute the strategic withdrawal that might have followed a Russian capture of the city, leading to disenchantment with Kyiv’s leadership. Zelenskiy and his team are described as facing questions from U.S. counterparts about the overall war tempo and prioritization. (Source: The New York Times)
Earlier reports noted missteps in the defense planning for a key frontline sector in the Avdiivka area, with criticism directed at what was perceived as avoidable errors in operations and coordination. (Source: The New York Times)
In remarks previously made by Zelenskiy, there was emphasis on keeping fighting within Ukrainian territory and avoiding an escalation that would entail aggressive actions beyond the borders. The strategic aim, as conveyed publicly, centers on maintaining defense while preventing incursions into the Russian Federation. (Source: The New York Times)