President Zelenskyy’s Warning
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has issued a stark warning about the potential consequences of the fall of the eastern city of Bakhmut to Russian forces. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Zelenskyy said that losing Bakhmut could put Ukraine’s hard-fought momentum at risk and would likely have major consequences for the ongoing war in the region.
The Importance of Holding Bakhmut
Bakhmut, an industrial hub located about 70 kilometers northeast of the separatist stronghold of Donetsk, has been the scene of some of the most intense fighting in the seven-year conflict in eastern Ukraine. Analysts have suggested that the city itself does not hold much strategic importance, but for Zelenskyy and his government, holding onto it is seen as vital in order to prevent Russia from gaining momentum in the ongoing conflict.
Potential Consequences
Zelenskyy warned that if Bakhmut falls, Russia may begin building international support for a peace deal that could require Ukraine to make unacceptable compromises. Putin could use a victory in Bakhmut as leverage to push for a ceasefire deal that would see Ukraine agree to give up territory. Losing Bakhmut could cause the Ukrainian people to feel tired and push for compromise with Russia.
Support from Allies
Ukraine’s forces have managed to hold Russia’s invading forces at bay and even clawed back some occupied ground over the last six months thanks in part to Western support. Heavy tanks donated by the U.K. and Germany have arrived this week and are already being prepped for deployment to the front lines in eastern Ukraine. Zelenskyy stressed the importance of continuing this support from allies like the U.S. and Europe, as they understand that if they stop helping Ukraine, they will not win.
The Role of China
China has remained officially neutral in the conflict but has been aligned with Russia. Recently, Zelenskyy invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Ukraine. Zelenskyy is hoping that this visit can help reaffirm China’s support for Ukraine and prevent further strengthening of China-Russia ties. China has sent nonlethal aid to Ukraine and is considering sending lethal aid to Russia’s military.
Optimism for Victory
Despite the ongoing battles, Ukrainian soldiers in the trenches are optimistic that their country will win the war with an expected counteroffensive this spring. Zelenskyy agrees that Ukraine will prevail through a series of small victories and small steps against a big enemy with small hearts.
In conclusion, the fate of Bakhmut could have major consequences for the ongoing war in eastern Ukraine, potentially giving Russia the momentum it needs to redrew democratic Eastern Europe’s border by force. While Ukraine remains committed to holding onto Bakhmut, it will require continued support from allies like the U.S., Europe, and potentially even China to ensure victory in this long and bloody conflict.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
