Today marks the 913th day of the ongoing conflict, and I extend my warmest wishes to those celebrating Ukrainian Independence Day.

As an American, being in a nation actively engaged in a fight for its independence on such a day provides a unique perspective. Observing the struggle firsthand raises questions about how history remembers past independence movements, particularly the American Revolution. It's easy to romanticize the resolve of figures like the Founding Fathers, but the reality during their fight was likely filled with discord, uncertainty, and a lack of shared burden—a stark contrast to the victorious narrative we often hear today.

Turning to current events, I've previously suggested I would discuss the strategic objectives of Ukraine in the battles around Kursk. From my vantage point, it appears that Ukrainian forces are executing a classic envelopment and encirclement strategy against Russian troops, a significant development in the ongoing conflict.

In recent days, the Ukrainian military has launched a series of long-range drone strikes that have inflicted considerable damage on Russian positions. These attacks have been unprecedented in scale and effectiveness, showcasing a transformation in modern warfare as we witness the first conventional war strategic bombardment campaign largely reliant on drones.

Let's review some notable strikes that have occurred recently within Russian-held territory:

Strike One: Savasleyka Airfield (Voronezh Region) On April 13, Ukrainian drones targeted the Savasleyka air base. Although Russian sources claimed minimal damage and that all drones were intercepted, Ukrainian reports indicated the objective was to neutralize air defense systems.

Strike Two: Savasleyka Military Base (Nizhniy Novogord Region) On August 16, another drone strike targeted the same air base with a larger number of drones. Despite Russian assertions of successful interceptions, local reports indicated significant explosions and smoke rising from the site.

Strike Three: Proletarsk Fuel Storage Base (Rostov Region) On August 19, a swarm of Ukrainian drones targeted a fuel storage facility, resulting in substantial explosions and widespread fires that were difficult to contain.

Strike Four: Millerovo Airfield (Rostov Region) On August 21, a group of drones targeted Millerovo airfield, reportedly damaging Russian air defense systems, despite official claims of all drones being shot down.

Strike Five: Marinovka Airfield On August 22, drones struck Marinovka airfield, where several Russian aircraft were stationed, leading to significant damage and operational disruption.

Strike Six: Port Kavkaz (Kerch Strait) On August 23, Ukrainian missiles targeted the Port Kavkaz, crucial for ferry operations to Crimea, resulting in the sinking of a ferry and significant logistical challenges for Russia.

Implications and Future Outlook - These significant strikes indicate a shift in the conflict, with the potential for a temporary lull as Ukraine ramps up drone production. - Russian forces may reposition their assets further from the front lines, which could impact air strike capabilities. - However, Ukraine has demonstrated its ability to target critical infrastructure deep within Russia, suggesting an ongoing escalation of conflict. - NATO's intelligence-sharing capabilities have likely aided Ukraine's targeting efforts, raising questions about the extent of Western involvement.

As the situation evolves, it's clear that the logistical challenges faced by Russia, particularly concerning fuel supplies to Crimea, are becoming increasingly severe. The ongoing drone campaign illustrates a strategic shift in the conflict that could have lasting repercussions for both sides.