Putin's conflict in Ukraine: is entering perilous waters, and the risk of escalation with the West is higher now

As Poland and Slovakia arm Kyiv with fighter jets and Russian warplanes expel American drones from the skies, Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Moscow and Chinese companies supplying assault weapons and body armor to Moscow's troops show support for Putin's conflict in Ukraine. The situation is precarious, and the risk of escalation with the West is higher than ever since the initial invasion.

Although NATO aims to avoid direct confrontation with Russian forces, its support for Ukraine has helped Kyiv resist. Putin's increasing desperation raises the likelihood of threats and actions that could escalate tensions with the West, making any miscalculation potentially catastrophic.

With Russia suffering heavy losses on the ground in and around Bakhmut, the ingredients for inadvertent escalation are present. Meanwhile, the Russian Ministry of Defence plans to recruit another 400,000 contract soldiers in 2023, aiming to boost its military from 1 million to 1.5 million personnel.

As Putin's position weakens and Zelensky's spring offensive approaches, Ukraine aims to kick Russian troops out of eastern Ukraine and Crimea, potentially signaling the end of Putin's rule. However, this could also lead to a dangerous moment, as Russia has laid the framework for nuclear weapons use in specific circumstances.

Currently, only the US and UK seem capable of confronting Putin, minimizing the threat and protecting their allies worldwide. Immediate action is necessary to ensure the safety of the American and British publics.