The mood has soured
The mood has soured dramatically, amid discussions focusing on the West's indecisiveness, potential cuts in military supplies, delayed financing from the United States and looming tightened recruitment measures.
Yet if we set aside the issue of soured sentiments, we can see that Ukraine's position is not bad at all. A year ago, the country was already experiencing regular nationwide power cuts due to massive missile strikes by Russia, while this winter, despite intensive strikes, there has so far been no significant damage to the energy infrastructure. Significantly enhanced air defense, including three Patriot air defense systems, has kept Ukrainian cities well protected, though remnants of intercepted missiles still fall on apartment blocks, causing damage and death. Unfortunately, financial support has been delayed, but with gross international reserves above $40 billion, Ukraine is well equipped to weather this uncertainty. Moreover, the commitments from the European Union and the United States appear quite firm, at least for 2024. The discussion in Western media about the lack of a clear strategy for ending the war is seen more as a departure from illusions and an adjustment to the new reality, which will hopefully lead to stronger engagement, especially from the European Union, in repelling Russian aggression.
Ukrainian society is meanwhile facing the challenge of moving beyond optimistic narratives of a swift victory, and rapid recovery. Instead of these heightened expectations, Ukrainians in 2024 find themselves in a reality where the nation must undergo a challenging process of militarization. This requires all men to serve in the army and to acquire combat skills, to prepare for rotation at the frontline. This new reality is creating serious tension, but it appears that the authorities have limited room for maneuver against the backdrop of a perpetual war outlook. The concomitant legislation, which should tighten recruitment rules, is expected to be voted in by the end of January.
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