We need a new plan for the third phase of Putin's war

WITH the capture of Luhansk by Russian forces, the war in Ukraine enters a new phase, the third since the invasion on February 24, and perhaps the longest and most deadly.

- Robert Fox

For Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky and his commanders, it is still a fight for survival. A new defensive line is being built across the west of Donbas, based on the hub of Kramatosk and Slovyansk.

The Ukrainians have suffered - with well over 20,000 soldiers killed and at least a quarter of the population forced to leave home. On the battle front the Russians are battering their way forward by the sheer quantity, as much as quality, of their artillery and forces.

There is little prospect of a ceasefire, let alone peace talks, reasonably soon.