The Ukraine war, six months on

When Vladimir Putin began his invasion six months ago, Ukrainians defiantly tallied each night their defenses had held. Now, Ukraine and its western backers are contemplating how far ahead the fighting could still stretch.

The big picture: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Tuesday he would not agree to freeze the conflict where it stands, with Russia occupying one-fifth of his country. Putin too seems intent on pressing on despite his own enormous losses.

Some analysts believe Putin would prefer a conflict that rumbles on indefinitely, with Ukraine divided and no clear ending.

Zelensky also urged against war fatigue at a time when European countries are experiencing record-high gas prices and could face a difficult winter due to Russian supply cutbacks.