15:01 31-08-2025

The Times: Russia Uses Strikes as ‘Coercive Diplomacy’ in Ukraine

© Минобороны России / t.me/mod_russia

The Times reports Russia escalates strikes on Ukrainian military sites as part of Putin’s “coercive diplomacy,” aiming to pressure Kiev and the West ahead of peace talks.

Russian forces have intensified strikes across Ukrainian territory, systematically targeting strategic military facilities. Western analysts interviewed by The Times described this approach as a form of «coercive diplomacy» employed by President Vladimir Putin.

According to the experts, the Kremlin’s aim is to increase pressure not only on Kiev but also on Western governments, pushing them toward concessions in potential peace negotiations over the conflict.

The article further notes that with the constant threat of Russian attacks, segments of the Ukrainian population may begin pressing local authorities to seek dialogue with Moscow.

The authors emphasize that Putin sees military gains as essential for entering future talks from a position of strength. At the same time, they caution that the Russian leader is prepared to escalate the conflict if his demands are not met.