Ukraine stalemate sets stage for possible winter escalation

By The Associated Press

With the war in Ukraine grinding through its 10th month, both sides are locked in a stalemated battle of attrition, which could set the stage for a new round of escalation. Many observers see the current deadlock as beneficial to Ukraine, allowing it to receive more state-of-the-art weapons from the West and prepare for new counteroffensives. In Russia, there is a growing sense of desperation among hard-liners about what they see as President Vladimir Putin’s hesitancy and lack of a clear strategy. Military analysts note the fighting is likely to intensify again as the soil freezes. Many point to Russian-occupied areas in the south as the most likely place for the next Ukrainian attack.