Ukraine Faces Growing Pressure as Russia Readies New Offensive

With U.S.-brokered peace talks on hold due to the war in Iran, Putin plans to expand military gains in Ukraine

Mar. 20, 2026 at 7:41am by Ben Kaplan

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As the war in the Middle East drains U.S. air defense assets, Russia is expected to launch new offensives against Ukraine, putting even more pressure on Kyiv. Windfall revenues from surging global oil prices are filling Moscow's war coffers, while bickering over a major EU loan to cover Ukraine's military and economic needs reflects the mounting challenges. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has sought to hold Washington's attention, but President Trump has shrugged off Zelenskyy's offer of help, saying the U.S. doesn't need Kyiv's assistance.

Why it matters

The war in Iran has created a geopolitical crisis that is complicating the situation in Ukraine, as Russia seeks to capitalize on the distraction and the financial windfall from high oil prices to potentially launch new offensives. This could put Ukraine under even greater pressure and strain the Western alliance, with implications for global security and stability.

The details

Russia appears to be readying for a renewed push to claim the part of the eastern Donetsk region that remains under Ukraine's control, as well as possible offensives in several other sectors. Moscow has been building up reserves and its operations are expected to gain tempo as the spring warmth dries the terrain. Ukrainian forces have stepped up counterattacks and strikes against Russian logistics to try to derail the expected offensive, but Russia has changed tactics, relying more on volunteers and foreign fighters.

  • Russia launched a 'partial mobilization' of 300,000 reservists early in the war in 2022.
  • Putin said Russia has about 700,000 troops fighting in Ukraine, about the same number that Ukraine reportedly has.

The players

Vladimir Putin

The President of Russia, who is expected to try to expand Russia's military gains in Ukraine through new offensives.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy

The President of Ukraine, who has sought to hold Washington's attention and offered Ukraine's expertise in defending against Iranian drones, but has been rebuffed by President Trump.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States, who has cast Zelenskyy as an obstacle to peace and said the U.S. doesn't need Ukraine's assistance in defending against Iranian drones.

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What they’re saying

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— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.