Russia's War Against Ukraine
OP-ED
Mark Galeotti: Putin’s countermove
Russian President Vladimir Putin (C) shakes hands with Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko (R) during a meeting on Feb. 11, 2015 in Minsk.
Despite the tentative success of Minsk talks, the elusive goal of lasting peace in Ukraine is still adding to the chorus of voices in Washington calling for the United States to arm Kyiv. These calls may well prove irresistible, especially if the Ukrainian forces' recent counterattack on Russian-backed rebels near the port city of Mariupol proves unsuccessful. Moscow, meanwhile, is not only watching the debate with keen and brooding attention; it is devising responses in case Washington and its allies choose to arm Ukraine.
