Interview
War in Ukraine: what’s happening in Kyiv?
- Vladimir Putin has declared a "special military operation" in Ukraine, explicitly citing "denazification" and the protection of Russia as objectives while issuing nuclear escalation threats against Western interference.
- The invasion began unexpectedly, catching many Ukrainians off guard despite prior skepticism generated by repeated false alarms regarding imminent attacks.
- In Kyiv, the immediate onset of air raid sirens prompted a rapid shift in civilian behavior, with families fleeing to the Metro while others continued commuting to work.
- Widespread preparation for a prolonged conflict is evident as citizens stock up on fuel, medication, and supplies to remain in the capital.
- Major roads west of Kyiv toward Lviv and the Polish border are backed up with hours of traffic as civilians attempt to evacuate.
- President Zelensky has authorized the issuance of firearms to any citizen wishing to defend the country.
- Civil order is currently maintained by the National Guard and armed service members, with no reports of vigilante activity on the streets.
- Ukrainians anticipate large-scale sanctions from the European Union, the United States, and other Western nations to accompany military aid.
- A significant refugee crisis is already emerging in Poland and Moldova, raising questions about the EU's capacity to manage the influx and the potential for border closures.
- The Economist correspondent warns that the conflict could result in a "long, bloody, protracted battle" involving massive civilian casualties and the destruction of cities.
- Western observers note that while Ukraine has fought a conflict for eight years since 2014, this new escalation presents a different scale and motive against a superior military force.