Ukraine war nears 1,000 days as Russia makes slow gains and negotiations stall

As the war in Ukraine approaches its 1,000th day, Russia is making slow territorial gains while Ukraine struggles to maintain morale and military support. Both sides show little interest in negotiations, with President-elect Donald Trump suggesting he could end the conflict. Since the war began in February 2022, Ukraine has managed to resist a larger Russian force, but recent losses, including the fall of Avdiivka, have raised concerns. Russia has gained about 2,455 square kilometers in 2024, impacting Ukraine's morale despite its successful incursion into Russia's Kursk region. Ukraine continues to seek military aid from the West, fearing that without it, they may face significant challenges. Analysts warn that a cease-fire without security guarantees could set a dangerous precedent for European borders. Ukrainian soldiers remain determined to defend their territory.