Should we stay optimistic? Russia is escalating its war on Ukraine ever further and ceasefire negotiations have stalled. Experts worry the conflict may simply drag on and on.
How the Ukraine war could end (maybe)
Attacks: The start of the autumn months has seen no respite from aerial attacks for the residents of Ukraine. Comprehension quiz
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In the final paragraph, the word “quagmire” means:
A: A successful military operation
B: A difficult and complicated situation that is hard to escape from
C: A period of peace and rebuilding
D: A type of Russian military vehicle
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Which word is the closest synonym for “erratic”?
A: Consistent
B: Powerful
C: Unpredictable
D: Successful
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According to the article, which country did the US impose tariffs on as punishment for buying Russian weapons and oil?
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According to the text, what is Vladimir Putin’s main objective beyond gaining territory in Ukraine?
A: To force Donald Trump out of office
B: To turn Ukraine into a subservient state controlled by Russia
C: To stop European countries from buying Russian oil
D: To form an alliance with the United States
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The article mentions two significant costs of the war for Russia. Identify both of them.
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In your own words, summarise two reasons why Ukrainian leaders believe a ceasefire might not mean the conflict is truly over.
Answers
Tap to reveal
1. B 2. C 3. India 4. B 5. The two costs mentioned are the loss of a quarter of a million of Russia's citizens' lives and an estimated economic loss of $1.3 trillion. 6. Ukrainian leaders fear that even after a ceasefire, Russia could either interfere in their presidential elections to get a pro-Russian candidate elected, or simply use the pause in fighting to regroup its military for another invasion.
1. B 2. C 3. India 4. B 5. The two costs mentioned are the loss of a quarter of a million of Russia's citizens' lives and an estimated economic loss of $1.3 trillion. 6. Ukrainian leaders fear that even after a ceasefire, Russia could either interfere in their presidential elections to get a pro-Russian candidate elected, or simply use the pause in fighting to regroup its military for another invasion.
Glossary
Donald Trump - An American politician, media personality, and businessman serving as the 47th president of the United States since January 2025. A member of the Republican Party, he previously served as the 45th president from 2017 to 2021.
Satellite state - A nation that is officially independent but is heavily controlled by another.
Aces - Playing cards with a single spot, making them the most valuable cards.
Narendra Modi - The prime minister of India. He inspires passionate support from many in his country, but his critics regard him as populist, anti-Muslim and authoritarian.
Beijing - China’s capital.
Xi Jinping - The president of China, who has concentrated power and removed term limits allowing him to serve for life.
Axis - An alliance or grouping of countries (or powers) that act together, usually in opposition to another bloc. During World War Two, the Axis powers were a military coalition that opposed the Allies. They included Germany, Italy and Japan.
Elites - The richest, most powerful, best-educated or best-trained members of society.
Assassinations - The murder of an important person, such as a politician, royal or business leader.
Quagmire - A complex and hazardous situation — literally, an area of boggy land that gives way when you step on it.