Russia Outgunning Ukraine 6-to-1: Kyiv Commander-in-Chief
Defense News ,Ukraine-Russia War :- In a recent interview, Ukraine's commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrsky, shared insights into the ongoing conflict with Russia. He revealed that Russian forces are significantly outnumbering Ukrainian troops, leading to losses in both personnel and territory.
Syrsky explained that the ratio of ammunition fired by the enemy compared to Ukrainian forces is about six to one. This overwhelming advantage puts Ukrainian defense forces in a precarious position, especially considering the scarcity of weapons and ammunition along the extensive front lines.
Taking over as commander-in-chief after his predecessor was dismissed by President Zelensky, Syrsky highlighted the recent escalation in Russian aviation activity. He noted the use of guided aerial bombs by Russia, targeting Ukrainian positions with precision.
Amidst these challenges, Ukraine is actively seeking support from the United States. They are urging Congress to approve a $60-billion military aid package, emphasizing the need for air defense systems and missiles to bolster their defense capabilities.
Syrsky lamented the loss of territory, attributing it to the lack of sufficient air defense systems and artillery shells. He admitted that the Ukrainian forces faced limitations during the Kharkiv offensive due to resource constraints.
Reflecting on past engagements, Syrsky recalled Ukraine's successful recapture of territory near Kharkiv in 2022. However, Russia's persistent attacks in the border region pose ongoing threats.
He issued a stern warning to Russia against attempting to reclaim Kharkiv, emphasizing the dire consequences it would entail. Despite Ukrainian efforts, Russian forces managed to establish strong defenses in the south, particularly in the Zaporizhzhia region.
Syrsky acknowledged the challenges faced during the summer counter-offensive, citing insufficient air support and heavy losses in human lives and equipment. The city of Avdiivka, near Donetsk, fell to Russian forces due to relentless bombardment and compromised defense integrity.
The commander-in-chief highlighted the critical role of ammunition in artillery operations, expressing frustration over the inability to effectively engage in counter-battery fights.
To prevent further casualties and avoid encirclement, Syrsky made the difficult decision to withdraw from Avdiivka.
Ukraine is grappling with significant challenges in the face of Russian aggression. The lack of adequate resources, particularly ammunition and air defense systems, hampers their ability to defend against the well-equipped Russian forces. International support, especially from the United States, is crucial in bolstering Ukraine's defense capabilities and maintaining stability in the region.