The Prospects of Ukraine's Counteroffensive against Russia from an Islamic Perspective

As spring begins in Ukraine, there has been a pause in hostilities in the ongoing war with Russia that started last year. Ukraine has not regained any ground in the southern region of Kherson or the eastern region of Kharkiv in the months after Russia retreated from key areas there. However, as spring rains turn soil into mud impassable for troops and heavy weaponry, Ukraine is amassing fresh forces trained to use new Western arms, and its long-promised counteroffensive seems imminent. Western military analysts believe that Ukraine has enough manpower and gear to call the shots. One of the most feasible options for Ukraine is to dissect the land bridge that Russia created to the Crimean Peninsula when it captured large parts of southeastern Ukraine at the beginning of the war. Another option is an attack on separatist-held areas in the east that are "least prepared in terms of defence and depth". Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s decision in mid-April to appoint new heads of administration in Russia-occupied towns of the Luhansk region is considered a signal to divert Moscow’s attention and disperse Russian reserves.

From the perspective of the Quran and Sunnah, war is a last resort and should be avoided if possible. Allah says in the Quran, 

وَإِنْ جَنَحُوا لِلسَّلْمِ فَاجْنَحْ لَهَا وَتَوَكَّلْ عَلَى اللَّهِ إِنَّهُ هُوَ السَّمِيعُ الْعَلِيمُ

And if they incline to peace, then incline to it [also] and rely upon Allah. Indeed, it is He who is the Hearing, the Knowing. [8:61]

Muslims are encouraged to seek peace and reconciliation, but also to defend themselves and their communities from aggression. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, 

"Whoever kills a person who has a truce with the Muslims will never smell the fragrance of Paradise" (Sahih al-bukhari:6914).

The situation in Ukraine is complex and has historical and political circumstances that have led to the ongoing conflict. Islam emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in dealing with such issues. It is important to avoid generalizations and stereotypes that might distort or oversimplify the reality.

Both sides have arguments and evidences to support their positions, but it is important to consider the teachings of Islam in any decision or action taken. Muslims should strive to promote peace and justice in the world, and avoid causing harm or aggression to others.