War in Ukraine

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine’s global image has undergone a profound transformation—from a victim of war to a frontline defender of freedom. This shift is, to a large extent, the result of Ukrainian diplomacy, which has successfully rallied democratic countries into a steadfast alliance.

“Everyone has the right to a dignified life,” says Dr. Valerii Viun, Head of the Forensic Department. “But everyone also has the right to a dignified death.”

The Kremlin has claimed it gained full control over the city of Kupiansk so many times, it almost seems to believe it. In reality, Ukraine’s Armed Forces have carried out a series of successful counterattacks, pushing Russian troops back.

By the end of 2025, Russia’s total irrecoverable losses in the war are projected to reach 1.2 million—a figure unseen since World War II. Yet in the Kremlin, these unprecedented casualties are met with calm resolve. Russia appears willing to continue the war, losing hundreds of thousands of soldiers each year.

Leaked Russian production and financial documents show that Moscow is manufacturing a new Iskander 1000 ballistic missile with a range of up to 1,000 kilometers, capable of striking Oslo, Hamburg and other numerous European cities. Despite existing sanctions, the missile continues to rely on a wide range of Western-made components, and not all companies involved in its production are currently sanctioned.

Russia’s war machine is losing fuel—literally. Oil revenues have cratered, sanctions are tightening the noose, and unsold tankers drift aimlessly at sea.