Russia Plans Winter Infrastructure Strikes to Force Ukraine Surrender
Russia plans to target Ukrainian power and water systems this winter to force a conclusion to the conflict on Russian terms.
The Federal Government of Russia plans to target Ukraine's power, heating, and water systems this winter to force a conclusion to the conflict on Russian terms. This strategy follows a summer of increased attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure in response to strikes led by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
President Vladimir Putin is reportedly motivated by the prospect of securing large-scale resource deals and sanctions relief from the United States. U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have met with Putin to discuss such agreements. However, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent previously indicated that business deals are contingent on the end of the conflict.
Russia seeks a strategic partnership with the U.S. to boost its economy, which has a projected GDP growth of only 0.6%. In a related effort, President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus has proposed a trilateral fertilizer plant deal involving Belarus, Russia, and the U.S., a move that would require the lifting of sanctions on Gazprom.
