KYIV: Ukraine’s army leader admitted on Sunday that Kyiv’s position on the battlefield has worsened after Russian forces captured another village in eastern Donetsk region, pressing their advantage in manpower and ammunition.
Syrsky, in a Facebook post, conceded that Russian troops have gained ground, forcing Ukrainian forces to retreat westwards and establish new defensive lines near the city of Donetsk, which has been under pro-Russian control since 2014. He highlighted Russia’s “significant advantage in forces and means,” which has enabled them to make tactical advances despite heavy fighting.
The latest escalation follows Russia’s capture of the village of Novobakhmutivka in the eastern Donetsk region, approximately 10 kilometers north of Avdiivka, which they seized earlier this year. Reports from the ground indicate civilian evacuations amid intensified shelling, underscoring the perilous conditions faced by residents caught in the crossfire.
Ukraine’s military, though facing setbacks, is bracing for the arrival of much-needed US weapons following the approval of a $61 billion financial aid package by the United States. However, the influx of arms comes at a critical juncture as Russian forces continue to make rapid advances, particularly northwest of Avdiivka.
Soldiers deployed in the region have reported a shift in tactics, with the focus now on repelling Russian offensives rather than constructing defensive structures. Despite these challenges, Syrsky emphasized that Ukraine has not ceded operational advantage to Russia and is deploying additional units to bolster its defenses and replace those that have suffered heavy losses.
Criticism has surfaced within Ukraine’s military circles, with military bloggers highlighting shortcomings in leadership and manpower shortages exacerbating the country’s vulnerability. The situation remains precarious, with Kyiv’s leaders warning of further deterioration in the coming weeks even as shipments of US weapons are en route to the frontlines.
Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine’s head of intelligence at the Ministry of Defence, cautioned that the battlefield situation could reach its most critical phase in mid-May to early June.
