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When the Russian armed forces announced a major winter offensive, many experts agreed: this strategy will not work. The available units are too exhausted.
You should be right: Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin’s (70) goals have been missed for the past three months. The complete conquest of the Donbass is not imminent. Many areas are still staunchly defended by the Ukrainians.
“Target goals were too obvious”
Above all, the exhausting battle for the city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine significantly weakened both warring sides. The city battles put an additional strain on the Russian army – according to experts, thousands of soldiers lost their lives in the battle for the city.
Military expert John Spencer of the American think tank Madison Policy Forum ranks the reasons for the failure against the “Mirror”: “The quality of the troops was poor, and they also lacked a surprise effect.”
The goals of the attack were too obvious and made it easy for Ukrainian leaders to prepare accordingly, Spencer explains. The Ukrainians had also built up dense defensive lines that made it impossible to get through.
Ukraine counteroffensive
Nature also played into the hands of the Ukrainians. Forests acted as a kind of protective shield during fighting in the north of the country. In addition, the warm and wet winter resulted in muddy ground. This made it difficult for the Russians to maneuver. The Ukrainians had previously attacked Russian logistics to weaken the attackers, the expert continued.
It could get even worse for Putin’s troops. The Ukrainians are currently preparing a major counter-attack and plan to launch their spring offensive in a few weeks. Western troops support the country by training soldiers. New tanks will also be used for the first time.
The military expert says: “It is logical that the Ukrainians break through the land bridge to Crimea.” There have also been rumors for some time of an attack on the southern Ukrainian and Russian-controlled city of Melitopol. However, Russian defensive positions there are considered very strong, so it could be difficult for Ukraine to break through them. The new tanks could be a crucial turning point here. (A)
Source: Blick
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
