This Tuesday (24), the Russian invasion of Ukraine turns four years old. Under the mediation of the United States and President Donald Trump, Kiev and Moscow seek a peace agreement, but control of strategic cities in eastern Ukraine hampers consensus on territories and security.
What are so-called fortress cities?
These are cities in eastern Ukraine, such as Sloviansk, Kramatorsk and Kostiantynivka, which have been transformed into true defensive labyrinths. Since 2014, the Ukrainian army has built a complex system of trenches, bunkers and ditches in these areas to prevent tanks from passing through. As there are no natural barriers in place, such as large mountains or wide rivers, these human constructions are the only obstacle preventing Russia’s full advance on Donetsk province.
Why are these cities the biggest impasse for a peace agreement?
Because they represent Kiev’s last hold on Donetsk province, one of Vladimir Putin’s main goals. For Russia, conquering these cities means declaring total victory in the Donbas region. For Ukraine, handing them over would be admitting that Russian aggression has been rewarded. As American mediators admit to discussing land concessions, these cities have become the main ‘bargaining chips’ at international negotiation tables.
What are the military tactics used by Ukraine in these regions?
Ukraine uses the so-called ‘war of attrition’ in these cities. In simple terms, it’s a fatigue strategy: instead of trying to beat the enemy in a single battle, the goal is to wear them down as much as possible, destroying their resources and soldiers over time. As long as Ukraine maintains control of these urban strongholds, it can prolong its resistance and increase the political and military cost for Russia to continue the attacks.
How does US mediation affect the conflict?
Donald Trump’s government is in a hurry to end the war and has set the middle of this year as a target. However, Washington signals that it may accept Ukraine giving up parts of its territory to seal peace. This puts President Volodymyr Zelensky under severe pressure as he needs to decide between legally recognizing land losses to Russia or attempting a frontline ‘freeze’, where the conflict stops but the territorial dispute remains unresolved.
What are the international risks of a territorial agreement?
Analysts warn that allowing Russia to keep the occupied areas sets a dangerous precedent. In International Law, there is the principle that no one can gain land using force. If the agreement formalizes the annexation of eastern Ukraine, other countries, such as China in relation to Taiwan, may understand that invading neighbors has a manageable cost and that the world’s borders can be remade by military power without definitive punishment.
Content produced based on information gathered by the Gazeta do Povo team of reporters. To access the full information and delve deeper into the topic, read the report below.
SEE ALSO:
- How cities that resisted Putin for 4 years became a centerpiece of peace negotiations in Ukraine
