As Russia fails to achieve war aims in Ukraine, Putin needs a way out

5 days ago 14

Democracy Dies in Darkness

European officials say Moscow's escalating aggression is a result of increasing difficulties that Russia is facing militarily and economically.

June 2, 2026 at 5:00 a.m. EDT23 minutes ago

A recent analysis in one of Russia’s top foreign policy journals said President Vladimir Putin’s war goals were now unachievable, with ongoing Western assistance for Kyiv making it impossible for Russia to outspend Ukraine on military equipment and technology. (Turar Kazangapov/Reuters)

Pressure is mounting on Russian President Vladimir Putin over how to end his war in Ukraine as Moscow’s battlefield offensive stalls, financial resources dwindle and more frequent Ukrainian drone strikes inside Russia exacerbate growing public dissatisfaction, Russian and European officials and analysts said.