On the front lines in Ukraine, Russian troops are regrouping after capturing the key town of Avdivka in the east. Avdivka, held by Ukrainians since 2014, was a well-fortified position that fell after a prolonged assault by the Russians that began in September or October of last year. The Ukrainians claim the Russians suffered significant losses in taking the town.
One of the main challenges faced by Ukrainian soldiers was a lack of manpower and a severe shortage of ammunition, particularly 155-millimeter artillery shells. Frontline soldiers emphasized that with adequate supplies of artillery shells, they might have been able to hold the town against the Russian advance.
The fall of Avdivka could signal further Russian advances in other regions of Ukraine. Russian forces are also pressing in the south, east, and northeast, making it increasingly difficult for Ukrainian troops to hold their ground. The Russians are utilizing their numerical superiority, heavy artillery, and aerial glide bombs to overpower Ukrainian positions.
President Biden and President Zelensky have highlighted the connection between the delay in military aid from the United States Congress and the situation in Avdivka. The Ukrainians assert that the lack of ammunition, especially from the U.S., has significantly hampered their ability to defend against Russian aggression. While European countries have pledged support, the delivery of artillery ammunition has been slow, further exacerbating the supply shortages on the ground.
Ukrainian troops on the front lines stress the urgent need for more ammunition to counter the Russian onslaught. They face challenges not only in terms of firepower but also in manpower. Despite their efforts to repel Russian infantry assaults, the overwhelming numbers and tactics of the Russian forces pose a formidable threat to Ukrainian defenses.
