Frontline Ukrainian Troops Face Artillery Shortages, Scale Back Some Operations – Commander
Frontline Ukrainian troops are experiencing shortages of artillery shells and have been forced to scale back certain military operations due to a lack of foreign assistance, according to Brigadier General Oleksandr Tarnavskyi. The shortage of ammunition, particularly post-Soviet shells, such as the 122 mm and 152 mm varieties, is said to be a significant problem across the entire frontline. Tarnavskyi highlighted the impact of the drop in foreign military aid on the battlefield, noting that the current volumes of ammunition are insufficient to meet their needs. As a result, Ukrainian forces are redistributing and replanning tasks while making them smaller in order to cope with the shortage. The comments emphasize Kyiv’s reliance on Western military aid in its ongoing conflict with Russian troops.
The Russian forces are also reportedly dealing with ammunition problems, although specific details were not provided. Tarnavskyi revealed that weary Ukrainian troops on the southeastern front have adopted a defensive stance in some areas while continuing their offensive actions in others. He noted that Ukrainian forces still anticipate victories but would greatly benefit from reserves to allow for rotation and rest.
Tarnavskyi, who leads the Tavria operational grouping, played a key role in a counteroffensive that led to the expulsion of Russian troops from Kherson and the western side of the Dnipro River in November 2022, marking a significant success for Kyiv. However, a larger-scale push in the southeastern region of Zaporizhzhia this year has made little progress against extensive Russian trenches and minefields. Currently, Russia is actively trying to encircle the strategically important eastern town of Avdiivka, where Tarnavskyi oversees the defense. He highlighted that while Russian forces change their tactics, their intention remains the same, with constant attacks being carried out.
The situation in Avdiivka is fluid, with Russian forces frequently altering their tactics and achieving partial success in specific areas. Tarnavskyi noted the enemy’s pressure, particularly emphasizing their disregard for personnel safety. Avdiivka is seen as crucial for Russia’s aim of gaining full control over the Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, which Russia claims to have annexed but does not yet possess complete control over.
It is evident that both Ukraine and Russia have been engaged in an attritional conflict this year, with no significant territorial gains made by either side. Tarnavskyi acknowledged the difficulties faced by the Ukrainian personnel on the frontline, stating that they are not as fresh and rested as desired. He stressed the importance for commanders to have reserves to address these challenges. Kyiv is in discussions to enhance the process of conscripting men into the army, but no specific details have been revealed yet.
The winter conditions pose additional challenges for both sides, including extreme cold, reduced visibility, and the lack of cover from foliage-less trees. Tarnavskyi recognized the complexities involved in conducting military operations in such conditions, particularly in terms of logistics, evacuation, and equipment and personnel movement.
Ukraine’s need for defense against escalating strikes by Russian attack drones has become increasingly urgent. The country is pinning its hopes on the delivery of Western F-16 fighter jets. Tarnavskyi compared the F-16 to a Mercedes, highlighting the significance of its presence. However, there is currently no specific timeline for the delivery.
Both Ukrainian and Russian forces are facing significant challenges in the ongoing conflict, including shortages of artillery shells and personnel fatigue. The Ukrainian military is heavily reliant on Western military aid and is actively seeking ways to improve its defense capabilities. As the situation remains tense, it is crucial for both sides to adapt to changing circumstances and continue assessing strategies to achieve their respective objectives.
