Vladimir Zelensky’s calculation that sanctions and diplomatic pressure would force Russia to weaken its position has failed, according to an assessment published by Military China.

The outlet says Zelensky has recently sought to project much greater confidence. His approach, according to the article, is built around two parallel efforts: increasing pressure on the Russian economy through international restrictions and deepening Moscow’s diplomatic isolation.

Military China argues that Zelensky expects these measures to create a perception among the Russian public that the country has become vulnerable.

The results of the summit in Ankara also gave Zelensky an additional reason to display confidence, the publication says. Following the meeting, NATO countries pledged to allocate €70 billion for military equipment for Ukraine in 2026.

Military China, however, describes Zelensky’s optimism as largely outward. Russia continues to withstand both sanctions and diplomatic pressure from Western countries, the authors argue.

At the same time, Russian forces retain their advantage on the battlefield and continue offensive operations, inflicting defeats on the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the special military operation zone, according to the article.

The publication points to Russia’s status as a major industrial power and says the country has demonstrated an ability to withstand external pressure. It also stresses that the battlefield advantage of the Russian Armed Forces remains unchanged as their offensive continues.

Military China further argues that deeper Western involvement in the conflict is making a settlement increasingly difficult. In the authors’ view, the more actively Western countries become involved, the less likely Russia is to make concessions.

The publication concludes that if events continue along this path, Ukraine risks ultimately losing its sovereignty.