Russian Army's New Tactics and Losses in Ukraine: A Strategic Insight

In the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the Russian army has adopted new tactics, including the use of soldiers on motorcycles to traverse the no-man's land at high speed. However, they are now facing the challenge of Ukrainian drones that can target and eliminate the soldiers. This development has allowed Russia to seize a significant amount of territory, approximately 430 square miles, over the past nine months. George Barros from the Institute for the Study of War highlighted the shift in tactics used by Russia.

Russian Advancements and Losses

Despite the territorial gains, the Russian army is incurring heavy losses, with an estimated 25,000 to 30,000 troops lost per month. The total casualties since the invasion began in February 2022 are believed to be as high as half a million killed or wounded. This high cost has not deterred Russian President Vladimir Putin from pursuing his aggressive strategy to grind down Ukraine's resistance, which includes threats of nuclear war against nations supporting Ukraine.

NATO's Response and Aid for Ukraine

Discussions within NATO regarding long-term aid for Ukraine have been ongoing. There has been a significant impact on Ukraine's defense capabilities due to the temporary suspension of arms shipments caused by political reasons. Meanwhile, the Russian air force has employed new devastating weapons, such as glide bombs equipped with cheap glide kits, transforming old Soviet-era stockpiles of gravity bombs into precision weapons. These bombs can target locations 30 to 40 miles away with great accuracy, inflicting significant damage on Ukrainian defenses.

Shift in Momentum and International Support

Although Russia has attempted to protect its tanks with additional armor, Ukrainian counter-measures, including the use of American weapons, have proven effective. The United States has announced $2.3 billion in military assistance for Ukraine, demonstrating continued support despite Putin's efforts to dissuade the international coalition from backing Ukraine.

Political Will and the Outcome of the War

George Barros emphasized the critical role of political will in determining the outcome of the war in Ukraine. He highlighted the importance of the international community's support for Ukraine, stating that as long as this support continues, Russia's chances of prevailing in the conflict are minimal. Barros made it clear that the focal point of the war is not solely the battleground in Ukraine, but rather the decisions and actions taken by international allies, particularly in Washington.