Ukraine rapidly captures a large slice of Russian territory in a week-long blitz, leading to a 400 square mile takeover. The invasion is seen as an attempt to divert fighting away from Ukraine and to gain leverage in potential peace talks.
Key Points
Ukraine's surprise invasion into Russia aims to stretch Putin's armies and destabilize Russia
Message to allies in the West that Ukraine is capable of launching offensive operations
Pros
Ukraine successfully captures 400 square miles of Russian territory in a week
Seen as an attempt to divert fighting from Ukraine
May give Ukraine leverage in potential peace talks
Cons
Tens of thousands of Russians displaced
Potential threat of escalation beyond the two nations' conflict