Ukraine is intensifying both military and political pressure simultaneously to revive the stalled diplomatic process with Russia. In early June, during the economic forum in St. Petersburg, Ukraine launched long-range drones targeting energy facilities around the city and the Russian naval base in Kronstadt. At the same time, Volodymyr Zelenskiy sent an open letter to Vladimir Putin, shifting the Kremlin's agenda in his favor ahead of a press conference.
The report notes that these moves are not isolated steps but the first signs of a broader military-diplomatic campaign planned for the summer. Political and diplomatic circles in Kyiv believe the upcoming actions aim to push Moscow to the point where serious negotiations are not an option to avoid.
Why the diplomatic channel stalled
According to the Ukrainian side, the previously active dialogue with the US has effectively slowed down. Contacts renewed at the beginning of the year by the updated Ukrainian delegation, which had advanced to a more progressive stage, stalled when it came to leader-level meetings. Kyiv believes Washington’s role has shifted from a clear ally to more of a facilitator.
Ukrainian officials argue that Washington acting merely as a messenger between the two sides is insufficient. Kyiv expects the US to assert its power at the table, keep the parties within the same framework, and push negotiations forward.
Areas Ukraine is focusing on the battlefield
The report describes how Ukraine has recently sought to seize the initiative in certain areas by targeting Russia’s defense industry, energy infrastructure, and oil-gas sector with long-range strikes. At the same time, technological advantages on the front lines have been expanded.
In this context, the increase in Starlink-based communications and medium-range drone production has created a significant advantage for Ukraine. According to the text, this capability has become one of the main factors enhancing mobility on the battlefield.
Another Ukrainian objective is to increase logistical pressure around Crimea. The report explains that by gradually cutting military, transportation, and energy lines, the peninsula and the Russian military group in the south could be pushed into more difficult conditions. If this scenario fully materializes, an operational drone blockade could emerge without a large-scale ground offensive.
A second front opened through letters
Zelenskiy has sent letters not only to Putin but also to Washington, Berlin, and Brussels. These letters are part of Ukraine’s effort to make its agenda more visible internationally.
The report compares this method to the video messages used in the early stages of the war. The letters aim to mobilize international public opinion and compel parties to respond within the framework set by Ukraine.
The Ukrainian side believes that the information and perception pressure on Moscow was also felt during the May 9 debates. The current goal is to turn this tactical advantage into a more lasting diplomatic benefit.
Expected role from the US and Europe
The report states that Kyiv is displeased with Washington’s recent shift of focus to the Middle East and Iran. The Ukrainian side sees the long absence of the American delegation as a result of this change in priorities.
Therefore, Zelenskiy has called on European capitals to apply more active pressure in recent talks. During contacts in London and subsequent regional meetings, the message was conveyed that Europe should also participate more in a joint pressure line against Putin.
The text clearly outlines Ukraine’s goal: to bring the US back to the negotiating table and make Europe a more effective part of the pressure mechanism. Kyiv believes that if these two lines work together, the Kremlin may have to consider a different negotiation approach before the end of summer.
