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Ukraine's trajectory is defined by intense diplomatic negotiations with Russia and the US, led by Zelensky, while its civilian infrastructure suffers under relentless Russian bombardment. The economy is propped up by major Western loans but remains crippled by energy shortages.
February 2026
Week of Feb 23, compared to 12-week average
Top sources covering Ukraine
Ukraine's economy is in a state of severe energy crisis and dependent on external financial lifelines. The energy system is severely damaged, causing major power shortages, while Slovakia cut emergency electricity supplies. This occurs as the European Parliament approved a 90-billion-euro loan and the IMF approved an $8.1B loan for post-war recovery.
High-level diplomacy dominates, with Zelensky engaging in talks with Russia and the US. Talks in Geneva ended without a deal, but Zelensky announced the next round will be in Switzerland. Zelensky also stated Ukraine will not hold elections without a ceasefire and spoke with Trump ahead of US-Ukraine talks.
Security is defined by Russia's sustained campaign of missile and drone attacks targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Russia launched its largest missile and drone attack of the year and intensified strikes on the power grid before peace talks. Zelensky stated Russia failed to achieve its war goals.
Society is polarized by international symbolic actions and domestic information warfare. The dominant tension is a cultural and diplomatic boycott, exemplified by the Ukrainian Paralympic team boycotting the opening ceremony over Russian participation. Officials also condemned the term 'forced mobilization' as enemy language.
