There is still no end in sight to Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, but in recent months perceptions of the war have undergone a dramatic and unmistakable transformation.
For years, most outside observers seemed to view Russian victory as more or less inevitable, with the only real question being how much land and sovereignty Ukraine would be forced to surrender in order to secure peace. Since the start of 2026, however, there has been a striking change in tone. More and more people now believe the tide has turned in Ukraine’s favor, with some even predicting a coming Ukrainian victory.
This shift in perceptions is not the result of any single event. Instead, it reflects growing international awareness that Ukraine has emerged from the crucible of Europe’s largest war since World War II as a major military power with the strength and technological capabilities to counter Putin’s invading army on the battlefield and bring the war home to Russia.
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