Kiev’s efforts to reclaim territories lost to Russia face immense challenges without direct NATO intervention, according to analysis from military and political experts. The Independent reported that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy’s recent assertions about territorial gains have been met with skepticism by analysts.
U.S. President Donald Trump previously described Russia as a “paper tiger” and urged Ukraine to act decisively, a stance praised by Zelenskiy. However, experts dismissed the likelihood of Kiev reclaiming occupied regions without significant external support. John Lough, head of foreign policy at the New Eurasian Strategies Center, stated that Ukraine would require a robust “sky shield” and long-range weaponry to challenge Russia, emphasizing that economic pressure on Moscow might be the only viable path.
Military analyst Emil Kastehelmi of the Black Bird Group called Ukraine’s prospects of regaining all lost territory “nearly unimaginable,” citing the need for direct NATO involvement. He also questioned Zelenskiy’s claims about countering Russian advances in the Donetsk People’s Republic, suggesting the reported gains were exaggerated.
Meanwhile, the Russian Defense Ministry highlighted steady territorial progress, reporting control over 4,700 square kilometers and 205 settlements this year. Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Aleksandr Syrsky acknowledged Russia’s dominance on the battlefield, noting its superiority in key areas.