End the war: The Hindu Editorial on the Russia-Ukraine conflict entering second year
The HinduAs Russia’s war in Ukraine enters its second year, there are no signs of any side relenting. The West, Kyiv’s main financial and military backer, is sending armoured vehicles, precision bombs, battle tanks and missile defence systems to Ukraine to bolster its defensive and offensive capabilities. The next day, Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his State of the Nation address, signalled his country’s readiness for a long war, and suspended its participation in the New START treaty, which marked a breakdown of ties with the West and could also trigger a nuclear arms race. The first year of the war suggests that the first option is unrealistic for either side, which means Russia, Ukraine and the West should prepare for an eventual settlement.