Putin's Winter Strategy: ISW Warns of Escalating Drone Strikes to Force Capitulation by Spring 2027
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reports that Vladimir Putin has adopted a new strategy to force Ukraine into capitulation by spring 2027, relying on massive, sustained strikes with ballistic missiles and jet-powered drones. This approach aims to exploit Ukrainian air defense shortages and energy vulnerabilities during the winter. Recent attacks on Kyiv and occupied territories have intensified humanitarian crises, while Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refinements continue to constrain Moscow's war economy.