(Reuters) – Russia is getting ready to potentially deploy 100,000 troops for a new offensive push in Ukraine this summer or to refill depleted units, according to the commander of Ukraine’s ground forces Lieutenant-General Oleksandr Pavliuk. His statements came after recent advances by Russian forces in eastern Ukraine, over two years after Moscow’s full-scale invasion.
Pavliuk, speaking on Ukrainian television, mentioned, “It will not necessarily be an offensive, perhaps they will replenish their units that lost combat capability but there is a possibility that at the beginning of the summer they may have certain forces to conduct offensive operations.”
In a sign of escalating rhetoric in Russia, the Kremlin stated on Friday that it now considered itself at war due to what it deemed as Western intervention on Ukraine’s side. This language deviates from the previously used “special military operation” phrasing and may indicate a shift to prepare the population mentally for a new phase of the conflict.
Russia’s defense minister also announced this week that Moscow would enhance its military strength by introducing two new armies and 30 new formations by the end of the year. Ukraine is grappling with a shortage of ammunition exacerbated by a stalemate in the U.S. Congress surrounding a new aid package. However, Kyiv is optimistic about securing enough ammunition by April, partly due to a Czech-led initiative to procure artillery shells.
Deputy Defense Minister Ivan Havryliuk highlighted in televised remarks that Russia currently holds a significant ammunition advantage over Ukraine, with a ratio of seven to one. He expressed confidence that this discrepancy would diminish within a month or two, evening out the playing field.
Overall, the situation in Eastern Europe remains tense as both Russia and Ukraine make military preparations and address challenges in ammunition supply. The dynamics of the conflict continue to evolve, with the possibility of renewed hostilities looming on the horizon.
It is crucial for international observers to monitor the developments closely and work towards de-escalating tensions in the region to prevent further bloodshed and instability. The outcomes of the ongoing conflict will have far-reaching implications for the security and stability of not just Ukraine and Russia but the broader European continent.
Efforts to find diplomatic solutions and promote peaceful dialogues between the parties involved are essential to prevent a worsening of the situation and to foster a path towards lasting peace and stability in the region.
The coming months will be critical in determining the trajectory of the conflict and the prospects for a peaceful resolution. The international community must remain vigilant and actively engage in diplomatic efforts to avert a full-fledged war and support the aspirations of the Ukrainian people for sovereignty and security.
As the situation unfolds, it is imperative for all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue, cooperation, and respect for international law to mitigate the escalation of tensions and pave the way for a peaceful coexistence in Eastern Europe.
(Reporting by Yuliia Dysa; editing by Tom Balmforth and Timothy Heritage)
