2024-04-24 11:45:28
“After a failed, much-publicized counteroffensive and another winter of fending off Russian attacks, Ukrainian forces are depleted and severely understaffed. The government has approved a draft plan to bolster the ranks of troops, and European countries have pledged to send more vehicles and missiles and other much-needed supplies,” The New York Times writes.
According to the daily, Ukraine received a much-needed boost after the US House of Representatives approved a $60 billion dollar military aid package that will provide more weapons for the country’s hostilities.
But Ukraine really needs time. Training of newly mobilized troops will take several months, while European equipment will be brought in gradually over the course of a year.
Analysts say Ukraine is unlikely to launch a major counteroffensive this year, preferring instead to spend time rebuilding its forces. However, the Ukrainians will still have to try to repel Russian attacks and prevent any small success of the enemy from turning into a full-fledged breakthrough, The New York Times wrote.
It is noted that Ukrainians will use ambitious defensive lines to repel Russian attacks. The Ukrainian government allocated about 800 million dollars for the already accelerated construction of fortifications.
The top US commander in Europe, General Christopher Cavoli, was optimistic.
“I think that their (Ukrainian) defense will be very strong. With continued support, their situation will be good,” the official asserted.
The New York Times points out that the Ukrainians are directing their resources to the hottest areas of the front in order to make ground attacks as costly as possible for Russia. In doing so, both sides rely heavily on well-prepared trenches.
“These can be deep trenches reinforced with cement, they can have heating and sleeping areas. Building and protecting them requires a lot of manpower. As Ukraine’s ranks have thinned due to casualties, it remains unclear whether they will be able to complete this task,” the publication states.
Military analyst James Rands argued that Ukraine’s defenses against a full-scale invasion were exceptional. According to him, the bunkers in Donbas were protected by fire and ballistic protection, and the trenches were fortified. However, according to the expert, as Russia is now preparing for a new attack, Ukraine is unlikely to be able to repeat it.
Prepared according to “UNIAN” information.
2024-04-24 11:45:28