Ukrainian soldiers preparing to launch drones at a target in Russia in May 2026. While recent battlefield developments have been positive, especially with long-range strikes in Russia and Crimea, analysts warned that Ukraine must ensure a smooth handover in the military leadership to maintain momentum. (Brendan Hoffman/The New York Times) By MARC SANTORA On May 9, 2014, a 13-ton armored vehicle tore through pro-Russian barricades in Mariupol, launching a young battalion commander into…
