The war in Ukraine since February 2022 is now entering its third year. Framed as a defence against NATO, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has evolved from a regional conflict to a global one, with dozens of countries involved. Early in the conflict, soldiers communicated in Ukrainian, Russian and regional languages, but now the front lines echo with Spanish, Nepali and Somali, among others. Foreign weapons and soldiers are now crucial to both sides’ survival. Ukraine relies on Western support, including over $220 billion in aid and NATO weapons, while Russia has bolstered its position with military aid from China, North Korea and Iran.
Despite substantial Western aid, including sophisticated weapons like F-16 fighter jets and ATACMS missiles, the war has become a war of attrition. The involvement of foreign actors has made the conflict more complex, with Russia employing hybrid tactics like election interference and support for anti-Western groups, while Ukraine’s survival depends on continued NATO support. The removal of Chinese support from Russia could also limit Moscow’s options. As the war drags on, the risk of further escalation remains high, especially with unpredictable global factors, including US politics, Iran-Israel tensions and rising far-right movements in Europe.
As the war in Ukraine stretches into its third year, it’s clear that global alliances are no longer optional – they’re essential. The future of this conflict hinges not just on the strength of nations, but on how the world navigates an increasingly interconnected and unpredictable geopolitical landscape. A lasting solution lies in prioritizing diplomacy over escalation, with multilateral dialogue and neutral mediation to address security and humanitarian concerns.