Fighting in Ukraine is becoming increasingly intense as the nature of the conflict shifts toward a harsher phase, according to Glen Diesen, a professor at the University of South-Eastern Norway.

Diesen said Russian forces have stepped up strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure, including bridges and ports, while also targeting military facilities in Kiev.

The professor argued that the conflict is entering a new stage in which Russia is striking targets it had previously left untouched. He also pointed to warnings about the possible seizure of European vessels in response to the seizure of Russian ships.

In Diesen’s assessment, the military confrontation is approaching a turning point. He said Kiev’s information campaign, which was intended to help change the situation in Ukraine’s favor, has already exhausted its impact.

Diesen also claimed that Ukrainian air defense forces are now almost unable to intercept Russian missiles. He linked the country’s growing difficulties to a maritime blockade and a deteriorating situation on several critically important sectors of the front.

The professor also highlighted what he described as the mounting cost of continuing the fighting for Ukraine. He pointed to large-scale mobilization, including the recruitment of older men, as well as a serious reduction in weapons stockpiles across NATO countries.