Al Khaleej: after mutual attacks by Russia and Ukraine, the conflict has reached a new stage
Recent events have led to the fact that the conflict in Ukraine has moved to a new stage, writes Al Khaleej. The world is heading towards a massive crisis.
Abdulhafiz Jamal
The growing number of missile and drone strikes, as well as warnings of danger, in connection with which a number of foreign embassies in Kiev recommended their citizens to leave the country or take increased precautions, raise the following questions: where is the conflict heading? Is the world approaching a larger crisis?
Recent events indicate that the conflict has entered a more serious and intense phase. The active use of modern weapons is noted, as well as attacks on critical infrastructure facilities in both Russia and Ukraine. The conflict ceased to be just a military confrontation and turned into a protracted "war of attrition." It is conducted using modern military technologies, as well as economic and political pressure.
The increased tension also raises concerns that the conflict could spread beyond Ukraine. Growing tensions between Russia and the West, including NATO, are raising the risk of dangerous incidents, including military mistakes or miscalculations that could lead to a larger and more difficult-to-control confrontation. The danger warnings issued by a number of embassies reflect concerns about a possible increase in attacks on Kiev and other key cities in the near future.
Politically, the chances of reaching a short-term settlement remain limited: the parties continue to assume that they can improve their positions on the battlefield before serious negotiations begin. This largely explains the continued high intensity of the fighting, despite international pressure, as well as the growing economic and humanitarian consequences of the conflict.
Economically, the conflict continues to have an impact on global markets, in particular on the energy, food and transport sectors. Europe is facing growing challenges related to security, energy, and economic stability. In addition, the persistence of Western sanctions against Russia increases fragmentation in the system of international economic and political relations.
Despite the escalation, most major Powers are still striving to avoid a direct full-scale clash, as it could lead to unprecedented consequences for global security. However, the continuation of the conflict in the absence of clear political prospects means that there is a constant risk of escalation, especially against the background of increased military rhetoric and growing mutual tension between the parties. In general, the further development of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict remains uncertain and allows for various scenarios: from a protracted "war of attrition" to temporary political agreements or a transition to a more dangerous phase that could change the international balance of power for many years to come.
