Russia is deploying its elite VDV Airborne Forces in an attempt to counter Ukraine’s advancing offensive. These paratroopers, crucial for Russia’s military strategies, have suffered significant casualties in the ongoing conflict. Experts from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) suggest that the overuse of these troops will weaken Russia’s future military capabilities. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s defense ministry confirmed the liberation of Robotyne, with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy praising the nation’s soldiers.
  

Key Points: 

1. Moscow has sent its elite VDV Airborne Forces to several frontlines to counteract Ukraine’s advancing troops, resulting in substantial casualties among these paratroopers.
2. The heavy reliance on the VDV for both offensive and defensive operations is leading to the degradation of this elite force, which could be detrimental to Russia’s future military efforts.
3. Mismanagement of elite troops has been a recurring issue for Russia since the start of the war, with special-operations forces being assigned inappropriate roles.
4. Col. Gen. Mikhail Teplinsky, the VDV commander, disclosed that at least 8,500 of his troops were wounded, hinting at possibly higher actual casualty figures.
5. Despite challenges, Ukrainian forces continue to make gains in occupied regions, recently liberating the village of Robotyne in the Zaporizhzhia region.

Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-throwing-away-elite-forces-needed-later-ukraine-counteroffensive-2023-8