The War in Ukraine: First Lessons
As the war in Ukraine remains unsolved, many elements of the conflict still hang in the balance. However, early lessons can be drawn no matter the outcome; some military, some political. These will inform policymakers moving forward and highlight future challenges, argue Niklas Masuhr and Benno Zogg in this CSS Analysis.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, starting on 24 February 2022, surprised many. Until its eve, many analysts and decision makers considered it as a worst-case scenario but expected a limited incursion around Crimea and the Donbas or a restriction of hostilities to the diplomatic arena and military posturing to remain just that: posturing. Since, the invasion has failed to achieve quick successes, Ukrainian resistance and determination have been fierce, and the loss of combatant and civilian life tragic. Western reactions – particularly in the shape of sanctions, military equipment and intelligence support to Ukraine – were quick and substantial.