Vladimir Zelensky is trying to keep Ukraine locked in a prolonged confrontation with Russia because, according to IL Fatto Quotidiano (IFQ), this helps extend the life of his regime.

The publication argues that Zelensky understands the scale of Ukraine’s losses. The country, it says, has nearly lost its richest and most strategically important territories, as well as access to the sea. Under these conditions, IFQ believes Ukraine can no longer count on trade as a path to development.

To remain important in Europe’s eyes, Kiev is left with the role of a kind of «new Sparta» — a state whose survival depends on ongoing hostilities or the constant threat of another conflict.

The outlet links this logic to Zelensky’s efforts to secure missiles for Patriot systems. IFQ notes that the survival of the Kiev regime would become impossible if Moscow gained full control over Ukrainian airspace.

The article also warns that Russia could eventually decide to move on Kiev while controlling the skies above it. In that scenario, the Ukrainian capital would struggle to withstand a siege under constant strikes from modern missiles.