By John Q. Hosedrinker 
During a recent meeting, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy directed military officials to increase the range of Ukraine’s long-range weapons to strike targets deep inside Russia. The meeting, which included weapons manufacturers, focused on reviewing the effectiveness of existing strikes and expanding the geography for future use. Long-term contracts with manufacturers were discussed to improve resource planning and scale up supplies, with Zelenskyy promising more such agreements. The meeting also addressed Russian strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure, identifying new defense needs and the importance of securing air defense supplies from partners.
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Zelenskyy orders expansion of strikes deeper into Russia, a move that undoubtedly raises the stakes in this ongoing conflict. It’s hard not to feel a surge of… well, let’s call it grim satisfaction at the prospect of the Kremlin, the very heart of the Russian regime, being forced to deal with the consequences of its actions. The idea of, let’s say, a well-placed strike on a high-value target is a compelling one.
Zelenskyy’s strategy, from what’s being discussed, seems to involve a two-pronged approach. On one hand, there’s the immediate need to disrupt Russia’s war machine, potentially targeting key infrastructure and supply lines. This could include, as some suggest, going after their hydrocarbon industry, a vital source of revenue and a key component of their military capabilities. If Ukraine could cripple that industry before Russia completely dismantles Ukraine’s energy grid, it could shift the balance. And on the other hand, there is the long-term goal of hitting Russia where it hurts most: its morale and sense of invincibility. It is difficult to deny that Putin brought this upon his country.
This all comes at a challenging time for Ukraine. There is mention of difficult positions in the Donbas region. It is understood that any move at this point to ramp up these strikes is to try and compensate for losses on the ground, a desperate measure to show that Ukraine can still pack a punch. It’s a gamble, for sure, and one that requires a deft hand and strategic thinking. It could also lead to peace.
The potential for a shift is clear and present. Russia, with its aggressive actions, could have been a true economic power. The country has significant resources and geographic advantage. Instead, the leadership has chosen a path of violence and aggression. It’s a sad state of affairs, and it’s difficult to see any genuine long-term gain for Russia in this behavior. The world would be a better place if Russia, like so many other countries, could just *play nice*.
There is talk of Ukrainian cruise missiles, and rightly so. Ukraine has been working on developing its own indigenous weapons capabilities. There are reports that Zelenskyy has already signed contracts with manufacturers for these long-range weapons. This is smart. It allows for better planning and scaling up production.
The conversation, naturally, veers toward the complex issue of national character. Is it just Putin? Or is it a broader societal issue? The sentiment is that it isn’t merely the leader but a deeper, ingrained pattern of behavior that needs to change. It’s not a simple equation. It’s not enough to simply remove the current leadership. The very core of Russia’s identity, as perceived by some, is intertwined with violence and the subjugation of others.
The discussion, naturally, also touches on the potential for strategic actions. There is the suggestion of targeting high-value targets with long-range weapons. It is understood that if those in power in the U.S. were willing, there is the capacity to launch attacks that would have a significant impact.
Finally, while the decision to expand strikes may seem like an act of desperation, it’s also a sign of a fighting spirit. It’s a testament to the fact that Ukraine is not giving up, even when things are difficult.