International•26 Aug ’23 15:21 Author: Remy Kock
The Ukrainian victory in the village of Robotyne is one of great importance, but it is primarily a tactical success, according to Professor of International Relations Rob de Wijk. “Its strategic implications are still unclear.”
The Ukrainian victory in the village of Robotyne is one of great importance, but it is primarily a tactical success, according to Professor of International Relations Rob de Wijk. “Its strategic implications are still unclear.” (Anadolu Agency)
By strategic implications, De Wijk means whether Ukraine is able to advance to the center of gravity of the war: Crimea. And so far the answer to that question is ‘no’. ‘They are still scratching too much on the outside of the territory occupied by Russia for that,’ explains De Wijk. ‘But it’s a boost, that’s for sure.’
Success for Russia
But while Ukraine is achieving successes in the south of the country, it should not be forgotten that Russia is achieving successes in the northeast of Ukraine. The Russians report, among other things, to have recaptured Syn’kivka. An equally interesting battle, says De Wijk. All the more so because it is relatively striking that Russia is achieving success there, because it is a long way from Orikhiv, where the Ukrainians are advancing again. ‘We are talking about the almost extreme north of the eastern occupied territory of Russia,’ he explains. ‘I’m looking at that with great interest.’
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According to De Wijk, the Russians also have a simple motive to gain as much ground as possible there: to further control the Donbas. After all, if it comes to a round of negotiations, it can serve as an extra means of pressure.
2023-08-26 13:21:21
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