Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russian-occupied territories is progressing slowly due to Russia’s layered and sophisticated defensive systems, as a retired US general explained. These complex defenses present a “20 kilometers of hell” that Ukrainian forces must navigate, requiring meticulous and calculated strategy.
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Key Points:Â
- Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russian occupation is being slowed by Russia’s comprehensive and multi-layered defense system, which includes anti-tank ditches, barbed wire, trenches, anti-tank and antipersonnel minefields, and bunkers.
- Retired Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt describes these layers of defenses as a “deliberate defense,” designed to slow or halt Ukraine’s forces as early as possible in their advance.
- Despite the use of weapons provided by the US and NATO, Ukraine’s progress has been slow, leading to the assertion that a swift counteroffensive is currently unfeasible.
- The White House announced last week that the Biden administration would provide Kyiv with additional resources, such as cluster munitions, to aid the counteroffensive.
- Despite these challenges, national security advisor Jake Sullivan asserts that Ukraine has additional capacity yet to be utilized and that the Biden administration will continue to support Ukraine’s efforts.
