Another New Year at War: Ukraine’s Troops Doubt It Will Be the Last

Survival Becomes the Primary Objective for 2026

After a grueling twelve months of relentless Russian advances, Ukrainian forces on the eastern front are confronting a stark reality: the upcoming year will be defined less by offensives and more by the struggle to stay alive.

“It’s hard to make any plans,” one senior officer said, his voice heavy with fatigue. “Our main goal for 2026 is simply to survive.”

The conflict, now in its second year, has exhausted supplies, strained logistics, and worn down morale. Units that once prepared for coordinated counter‑attacks are now focused on maintaining defensive positions, rotating troops, and securing the limited ammunition and medical aid that still reach the front lines.

Local commanders report that the pace of fighting has slowed, but the danger remains ever‑present. Artillery barrages continue to pound forward‑line villages, and drone reconnaissance shows that Russian forces are still probing for weaknesses.

In the midst of this uncertainty, Ukrainian soldiers are turning to small victories—securing a vital crossroads, repairing a damaged bridge, or simply returning home for a brief reunion with family. These moments, though fleeting, provide the morale boost needed to endure a protracted war.

International partners continue to supply weapons and training, yet the officer stresses that without a clear strategic roadmap, “we’re operating in a fog of war where every day is a question of whether we’ll see the next sunrise.”

As 2026 approaches, the Ukrainian military’s focus remains on resilience, adaptation, and the hope that perseverance will eventually translate into a decisive shift in the conflict.