The Battle for Kyiv: The Fight for Ukraine s Capital

On February 24, 2022, Russia attacked Ukraine, resulting in the most significant European conflict since World War II. Russia attempted to advance to Kyiv and replace Zelenskyy with a puppet regime, but faced determined resistance and withdrew. This book explores the heroic resilience of the Ukrainians and the enormous support given to Ukraine by NATO and other nations. It covers the military operations, destruction, civilian suffering, and daily struggles for survival in the first phase of the war.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 29 August 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

On February 24, 2022, the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, launched a devastating attack on Ukraine, marking the most significant European conflict since World War II. The conflict unfolded on the same ground that witnessed intense battles between the Germans and the Soviet Union from 1941 to 1944. Russia's objective was to seize control of Kyiv and replace the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, with a puppet regime. However, faced with fierce resistance, the Russian forces were unable to capture Kyiv and were forced to withdraw and redirect their troops to other fronts.

The Battle of Kyiv serves as a testament to the unwavering courage and resilience of the Ukrainian people in the face of overwhelming military might. Despite Russia's superior population and economic resources, the Ukrainians successfully repelled the invaders. This achievement was made possible by the immense support provided to Ukraine by NATO and other nations, without which Ukraine's military might have faltered.

The author delves into the initial phase of the war, during which Russian armor, mechanized, and air mobile troops advanced on Kyiv, encircled Chernihiv, seized Kherson twice, and posed a significant threat to the existence of the Ukrainian state. U.S. intelligence services predicted that the Russians would capture Kyiv within three days, offering to evacuate President Zelensky back to Lviv. However, Zelenskyy declined the offer, stating that he needed ammunition, not a ride. He and his government remained in Kyiv, leading to the establishment of battle lines.

The Russians continued their offensive, expanding their attacks to other regions such as Chernihiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, Mykolaiv, and the strategically important port city of Mariupol. This book encompasses the entirety of the fighting in these areas until Russia's subsequent withdrawal from the region surrounding Kyiv.

The Battle of Kyiv highlights the profound implications of this conflict for Europe and the world. It underscores the importance of international solidarity and the willingness of nations to stand up against aggression and oppression. It also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Ukrainian people and the bravery displayed by their military forces. The war continues to unfold, with the Ukrainian government and its allies striving to maintain stability and protect the country's sovereignty.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399048484