In his recent interview Col Gen Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander-in-Chief of Armed Forces of Ukraine explained current situation on the frontline. In particular he mentioned that Ukraine is fighting against much better resourced Russian army. “The enemy has a significant advantage in force and resources,” Syrskyi said.
According to him Russian troops expanded from 100,000-strong force in the beginning of the full-scale invasion up to 520,000 now, and according to Kremlin’s plans by the end of 2024 they want to have 690,000 men. Recent hike in bonuses for signing contract with Russian army (up to $22,000) is among these force generation efforts.
Also Syrskiy commented the difference in the equipment, claimed that there is a ratio of 1:2 or 1:3 in Kremlin favour. Since 2022 the number of Russian tanks has doubled – from 1,700 to 3,500, artillery systems have tripled, and armoured personnel carriers gone up from 4,500 to 8,900. This superiority is the reason for current situation on the frontline, where Ukraine’s armed forces have been retreating steadily. For example a six-month gap in the US supply of weapons resulted in loss of eastern city of Avdiivka.
Read also: Ukraine is ramping up its drone capabilities
The Russians still advancing in the eastern Donbas, switched to massive usage of airdropped bombs to blast a path forward. As President Volodymyr Zelensky mentioned in his recent statement that Russia had dropped more than 800 glide bombs per week and in last month the number reached 3500. These glide bombs are heavy Soviet-era bombs fitted with precision guidance systems and launched from aircraft flying out of range of air defenses. The bombs weigh more than a ton and blast targets to smithereens. Gen.Syrskyi admitted things are very difficult as the Russians attacking Ukrainian positions in many directions.
In such condition the issue of Western military assistance become crucial. Western military aid, including advanced weaponry, training, and intelligence support, is crucial for leveling the playing field. This assistance not only enhances Ukraine’s defensive capabilities but also sends a strong signal to Russia that the international community supports the principles of international law and territorial sovereignty.
Furthermore, Ukraine’s stability and independence are critical for the broader security architecture of Europe. A strong and resilient Ukraine serves as a bulwark against further Russian encroachments into Eastern Europe, thereby contributing to the security of NATO member states and the EU. Despite frequent Russian claims on possible escalation, by providing military assistance, Western nations actually help to prevent the conflict from escalating, ensuring a more stable and secure Europe.
