The situation in southeastern Ukraine has escalated significantly. The nation’s forces have launched a major push to repel Russian invaders as part of their counteroffensive, which began in early June. According to Pentagon officials, the focus is on the Zaporizhzhia region, where thousands of Ukrainian troops, equipped and trained with Western gear, are pouring in. The main objective is to move towards the cities of Melitopol and Berdyansk, near the Sea of Azov, and disrupt the land bridge between Russian-controlled parts of Ukraine and the Crimean Peninsula, which is also under Russian control.
At the very least, Ukrainian forces want to position their artillery close enough to strike Crimea. Ukrainian officials estimate that this could take anywhere from one to three weeks, although troops on the southern front have admitted to slow progress due to minefields and resistance from Russian forces. Nevertheless, Ukrainian forces have managed to break through certain Russian defensive positions, as confirmed by the US nonprofit Institute for the Study of War, which refers to Russia’s Defense Ministry and military bloggers.
On the other hand, Russian forces are focused on preventing further advances by Ukrainian troops through aggressive artillery and aerial bombardments, according to the New York Times. US officials describe this phase of the counteroffensive as a crucial test, which likely took several months to prepare for. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has acknowledged the intensity of the battle but has refrained from providing more details.
Blinken stated, “We believe that the tools, equipment, training, and advice we have shared with Ukrainians over many months have positioned them well to successfully recover more territory taken by Russia.” Regardless of the outcome, this will be a grueling battle. Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Gen. Mark Milley warned that the offensive will be slow and difficult, with significant losses. (Read more Russia-Ukraine war stories.)
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