As U.S. President Donald Trump slows arms shipments to Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin is escalating attacks in what analysts call a strategy of attrition, aiming to exhaust Kyiv militarily and politically.

The fourth summer of the war in Ukraine has opened with intensified Russian offensives, both aerial and ground-based, amid a significant shift in international dynamics. With the U.S. withholding key weapons—including Patriot air-defense missiles—Putin has seized the opportunity to ratchet up pressure.

During a recent phone call with Trump, Putin reaffirmed his goal to “eliminate the root causes” of the conflict—a reference to NATO expansion and Western support for Ukraine. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov emphasized, “Russia will not back down.”

Ukraine Under Strain on the Frontlines

Russia has massed 50,000 troops in Ukraine’s northern Sumy province and is pressing forward on a wide front, stretching Ukrainian forces thin. Although Ukraine has halted some advances, Russian forces now outnumber Ukrainian troops three to one in key areas. Moscow’s offensive has gained momentum under the cover of summer foliage, though territorial gains remain modest and costly.

“From the Russian perspective, it’s been slow,” said Nick Reynolds of the Royal United Services Institute, citing high Russian losses. Yet analysts suggest that territory isn’t the main objective. “We should measure the ratio of losses, not kilometers captured,” noted Ukrainian defense analyst Taras Chmut.

Russian Bombardments and Ukrainian Retaliation

Civilian areas in Kyiv and elsewhere are enduring relentless Russian airstrikes and drone attacks. Ukraine’s SBU intelligence chief, Lt. Gen. Vasyl Maliuk, said the goal is to “sow terror.”

In response, Ukraine is expanding long-range drone strikes into Russian territory. Recent attacks include the destruction of Su-34 bombers, air-defense systems in Crimea, and a weapons factory in Izhevsk. Ukraine also claims to have assassinated Maj. Gen. Mikhail Gudkov, deputy commander of the Russian navy, in Kursk.

Trump’s Diplomacy Falters

Trump has signaled frustration with U.S. aid levels, blaming President Joe Biden for depleting America’s arsenal. While he denies a complete halt in weapons deliveries, the pause in key systems like Patriots has been deeply felt in Kyiv.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said he hoped to speak with Trump soon, emphasizing that European allies cannot replace certain U.S. capabilities. “We count on the continuation of American support,” he said.

Despite Moscow’s stated willingness to negotiate, no talks have been scheduled, and the battlefield remains the primary arena for diplomacy.