Tens of thousands have died. Millions have been turned into refugees. Almost one-sixth of Ukraine’s territory remains under Russian occupation. 2022 was the year large-scale war returned to Europe, cradle of the two global conflicts of the 20th century. Ukraine has, remarkably, endured as a sovereign state, and a cataclysmic broader war has so far been avoided. The goal for 2023 must be to give Kyiv all the aid it needs to bring the conflict to an end — on its terms.
Vladimir Putin’s aggression has reshaped the world order. It has united wealthy democracies in solidarity with Kyiv. Many are reconsidering their security. Finland and Sweden have dropped neutrality to seek Nato’s shelter. Germany’s historic Zeitenwende reversed its defensive caution, pledging a €100bn military modernisation.
Japan, too, is overturning six decades of pacifism and boosting military spending — aimed at countering the threat from China. The Ukraine conflict has focused attention on Taiwan as a potential flashpoint for a superpower clash, though Xi Jinping may be given pause by Russia’s quagmire in Ukraine.