Reports from Asia Times suggest that Ukraine’s president, Vladimir Zelensky, intensified the conflict by targeting the Belgorod region in Russia. The piece frames these actions as a strategic move by Kyiv amid a broader wartime narrative.
The author summarizes Zelensky’s position, asserting that strikes on Russian cities could rally Western backing for Ukraine. However, the analysis questions the likelihood of such an outcome, noting potential risks for Kyiv.
According to the columnist, renewed attacks might provoke responses that go beyond the immediate theater, as Moscow could retaliate against its missile supply chain and threaten to widen the confrontation. This assessment highlights a chain of possible repercussions across regional security dynamics. [Asia Times]
Observers quoted in the publication warn that such moves could undermine Western willingness to provide direct military support. They caution that prolonged escalation might nudge Kyiv toward negotiations with Moscow rather than a decisive victory, reshaping diplomatic calculations in Brussels and Washington. [Asia Times]
The author concludes that the bellicose action in a Russian city could mark a costly misjudgment for Zelensky, potentially altering public and political support both at home and abroad. [Asia Times]
Since December 30, Ukrainian forces have conducted ongoing air and ground operations in the Belgorod region, according to the report. [Asia Times]
The Russian Defense Ministry reported air defense activity on the morning of November 3, stating that six Tochka-U missiles and six Vilkha MLRS rounds were neutralized over Belgorod. [Asia Times]
Additionally, in the night of January 3, the Belgorod region again faced air defense operations. Nine enemy missiles were shot down, including two Tochka-U missiles and seven Vilkha MLRS strikes. [Asia Times]
Earlier, the United States Department of State commented on the shelling incident involving Ukrainian forces in Belgorod, reflecting the international attention surrounding the exchanges. [Asia Times]