Bowen: Why Ukraine remains defiant and does not feel close to defeat
BBC World
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Ukraine remains defiant nearly four years after Russia launched its full-scale invasion, with no end to the conflict in sight. The country’s resilience is evident in its innovative strategies to counter Russian advances, particularly through the use of anti-drone nets donated by European fishermen. These nets, which stretch for miles and snag the propellers of attacking drones, have proven to be a low-cost yet effective defense mechanism. Despite heavy casualties and relentless bombardment, Ukraine’s military continues to adapt and fight back, showcasing its determination to survive.
The battlefield has transformed with the rise of first-person view (FPV) drones, which are used by both Ukrainian and Russian forces to gather intelligence and target enemy positions. These advanced surveillance tools allow operators to remotely identify and eliminate opponents, even in dangerous or hard-to-reach locations. The use of fibre optic cables for drone control has made these devices more difficult to jam, giving them a significant edge on the modern battlefield. This shift has extended the kill zone across a wide swath of land, turning areas once considered safe into high-risk zones due to constant surveillance and deadly strikes.
The conflict’s evolution highlights the growing importance of drones in warfare, forcing global military strategists to rethink traditional tactics. While tanks and artillery remain formidable, a single drone costing just $1,000 can destroy a $30 million tank if piloted by skilled operators. This asymmetry underscores Ukraine’s resourcefulness and its ability to level the playing field against a better-equipped adversary. The ongoing conflict not only defines Ukraine’s resistance but also serves as a cautionary tale for nations struggling to adapt to 21st-century warfare, where technology and innovation often tip the balance of power.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/24/2026